Annually, the Environmental Working Group (EWF) publishes a list called the dirty dozen which claims the produce on this list contain the highest amounts of pesticides. The fruits and vegetables on this list are produce grown conventionally, not organically. It is advised when shopping for produce, to try to purchase organic produce that is on the dirty dozen list. This will help eliminate the effects of pesticides that can eventually effect your body.
Although, in my opinion, it is important to eat fruits and vegetables on a regular basis. If there are constraints in purchasing organic produce, then it is wise to eat conventionally grown foods. It would be more harmful to eliminate consuming the items on the dirty dozen list. Since the American diet mainly lacks fiber, it is important to continue to eat these items to remain healthy. Make sure produce is always washed well before eating. This will help remove any pesticides, dirt and dibris that remain on the fruit or vegetable.
2019 Dirty Dozen List
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Kale
- Nectarine
- Apple
- Grapes
- Peaches
- Cherries
- Pears
- Tomatoes
- Celery
- Potatoes
The bottom line is that everyone needs to consume more fruits and vegetables in their diet. Replace the processed junk foods for real whole foods, regardless of being conventionally grown. In the long run, people will live a healthier life eating the right types of foods then skipping it completely.