The Dirty Dozen & Clean Fifteen

Hidden Chemicals: 12 Contaminated Foods—15 You Can Trust

Hi everyone,

Every year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) ranks fruits and vegetables based on pesticide contamination.

Here’s a quick guide to last year’s lists to help you make safer choices at the grocery store.

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🚨 The Dirty Dozen: Most Contaminated Produce

These 12 items were found to have the highest levels of pesticides.

Whenever possible, opt for organic versions. However, when buying fully organic produce isn’t an option, remember to wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly to help reduce pesticide residues.

1. Strawberries

2. Spinach

3. Kale, collard & mustard greens

4. Grapes

5. Peaches

6. Pears

7. Nectarines

8. Apples

9. Bell and hot peppers

10. Cherries

11. Blueberries

12. Green beans

🌟 The Clean Fifteen: Lowest Pesticide Levels

These fruits and veggies are safer choices, even when conventionally grown:

1. Carrots

2. Sweet potatoes

3. Mangoes

4. Mushrooms

5. Watermelon

6. Cabbage

7. Kiwi

8. Honeydew melon

9. Asparagus

10. Sweet peas (frozen)

11. Papaya (check for GMO labeling)

12. Onions

13. Pineapple

14. Sweet corn (check for GMO labeling)

15. Avocados

Curious to see how the list might change in 2025—any predictions on which foods could move up or down?

To your zenith within,

Sara Redondo, MD

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