Dirty Dozen 2016

Every year the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases a list of fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residues after testing - as known as the Dirty Dozen. The EWG tests over 35,000 samples of produce before reporting their findings. Some of the fruits and vegetables tested came back with residue from over 15 different pesticides. Shocking!

Dirty Dozen

Strawberries

Apples

Nectarines

Peaches

Celery

Grapes

Cherries

Spinach

Tomatoes

Sweet Bell Peppers

Cherry Tomatoes

Cucumbers

This year is interesting because it is the first time in five years where Apples are not #1; strawberries beat them out this year. 

This list is important to everyone. It is important to know where your food comes from and what goes into and onto your food. As my Mom always says, “Knowledge is Power”. Become an empowered and educated consumer. Every dollar you spend is a vote cast. 

Everyone may not have the opportunity to buy solely organic food for their home - this list is incredibly important to them. If you are only able to buy a few organic items, consider this list. 

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) also releases the Clean 15 every year; the ‘cleanest’ fruits and vegetables. These are foods you do not necessarily need to buy organic. 

Clean 15

Avocado

Sweet Corn

Pineapple

Cabbage

Sweet Pea Frozen

Onion

Asparagus

Mangos

Papayas

Kiwi

Eggplant

Honey Dew Melon

Grapefruit

Cantaloupe

Cauliflower

Be informed. Shop smarter.