The Dirty Dozen

If you’ve ever stood in the produce aisle discouraged by the high cost of organic fruits and veggies, this list from the EWG might be a helpful tool for you.

Each year, the Environmental Working Group analyzes data from the USDA and FDA on pesticide residues found on produce.

They create two lists:

• Dirty Dozen: The 12 fruits and vegetables found to have the highest levels of pesticide residues.

• Clean Fifteen: The 15 produce items found to have the lowest levels.

If you’re trying to prioritize organic produce when possible, start with the Dirty Dozen. If you are also trying to save money, the Clean Fifteen are generally considered lower-risk choices when bought conventionally.

In general, the Dirty Dozen includes produce that:

• Has thin skin

• Is eaten whole (including the peel)

• Can’t be peeled or washed in a way that significantly reduces residues

The Clean Fifteen typically includes produce that:

• Has thick, protective peels

• Is peeled before eating

• Shows consistently low pesticide residue levels in testing

Making informed choices is an important part of any health journey. If the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists help you make those choices - great! However, the reality is organic produce is not an option for many. If that’s the case and conventional produce is what fits your budget, please don’t let this list be a source of anxiety or worry. Keep eating your fruits and veggies! They are still a much healthier choice than the alternative of ultra-processed foods.