The New “Dirty Dozen” List of Produce
June 15, 2011 by Dr. Harvey
Filed under Articles of Interest
The Environmental Working Group has released a new report detailing the list of fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residues. The Dirty Dozen List is:
Dirty Dozen 2011
- Apples
- Celery
- Strawberries
- Peaches
- Spinach
- Nectarines (imported)
- Grapes (imported)
- Sweet bell peppers
- Potatoes
- Blueberries (domestic)
- Lettuce
- Kale/collard greens
The “Clean Fifteen” list of the fruits and vegetables that contain the least amount of pesticid residue is:
Clean Fifteen 2011
- Onions
- Sweet corn
- Pineapples
- Avocado
- Asparagus
- Sweet peas
- Mangoes
- Eggplants
- Cantaloupe (domestic)
- Kiwi
- Cabbage
- Watermelon
- Sweet potatoes
- Grapefruit
- Mushrooms
These lists provide information to consumers about whether to purchase organically grown produce to reduce pesticide consumption. Contrary to popular belief, even cleaning produce might not remove all of the pesticide residue. My general rule of thumb is that if you east the skin of a fruit or vegetable, you should consider purchasing organic for these.
For the original article, click here.
6/28/11 Update: The Environmental Working Group now has a free iPhone App called The Dirty Dozen where you can download these lists to keep with you when you go shopping.
To Your Health!
Dr. Harvey
