The EWG analyzes data from the USDA's Pesticide Data Program, which tests thousands of produce samples every year, and ranks fruits and vegetables by the number of different pesticides detected, their concentration, and frequency of detection. Strawberries have topped the Dirty Dozen list for years. USDA testing has found more than 90 different pesticide residues on strawberry samples over the years. A single sample of conventionally grown strawberries has been found to contain residues from over 20 different pesticides simultaneously.
Pesticide residues on produce are generally within legal limits. But many pesticides are designed to affect nervous systems and hormones in insects, and at varying degrees those mechanisms can have effects in humans. Research has found associations between higher organophosphate exposure during pregnancy and early childhood and lower IQ scores, ADHD-like behaviors, and other neurodevelopmental outcomes in children.
2024 Dirty Dozen (Prioritize Organic for These)
- Strawberries, spinach, kale and collard greens, peaches
- Pears, nectarines, apples, grapes
- Bell and hot peppers, cherries, blueberries, green beans
Clean Fifteen (Fine to Buy Conventional)
- Avocados, sweet corn, pineapple, onions, papaya
- Sweet peas (frozen), asparagus, honeydew melon, kiwi
- Cabbage, mushrooms, mangoes, sweet potatoes, watermelon, carrots
References
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