The Dirty Dozen Plus: Foods You Should Only Buy Organic

30 seconds

Eating fresh produce is the best way to obtain the nutrients that support optimum health, but the pesticides used on many crops remain a major health concern. By choosing organic foods, you can reap the health benefits of fruits and vegetables without exposing yourself and your family to potentially harmful chemicals. Pesticides present real health risks, particularly to children and those with health concerns. The toxicity most commonly associated with pesticides in animal studies include disruptions in the normal functioning of the nervous and hormone systems, as well as increased risks of cancer.

As part of my support of the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and their recently updated Shopper’s Guide, I am presenting the newest “Dirty Dozen Plus” list – produce you should buy only in organically grown form. This includes both their fresh and frozen forms. According to EWG, common growing practices make the crops listed below the most likely to contain higher pesticide residues:

The Dirty Dozen Plus (2024)

• Strawberries
• Spinach
• Kale, collard, mustard greens
• Grapes
• Peaches
• Pears
• Nectarines
• Apples
• Bell and hot peppers
• Cherries
• Blueberries
• Green Beans
  + Potatoes

Also find out what foods are acceptable to eat when non-organically farmed, in the most recent “Clean 15” list.

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