The 12 fruits and vegetables with the highest concentrates of pesticides are named The Dirty Dozen. Conventionally grown produce with thin skins – like peaches and apples – absorb high levels of pesticide residue through their skin. Produce containing the highest levels of pesticide earn a spot on the annual “Dirty Dozen” list.
Research has found that people who eat five fruits and vegetables a day from the Dirty Dozen list consume an average of 10 pesticides a day. To be safe, it’s best to buy these grown organically.
The Dirty Dozen list – best to buy these organically grown:
- Celery
- Peaches*
- Strawberries
- Apples*
- Blueberries
- Nectarines*
- Bell Peppers
- Spinach
- Kale
- Cherries*
- Potatoes
- Grapes (Imported)
*All Aloha Organic Fruit is 100% certified organic: peaches, apricots, nectarines, cherries, plums, pears and apples. You can enjoy safe, delicious organic fruit year-round with our jams and fruit in a jar.
More information here about the Dirty Dozen Fruits & Vegetables
- Why should you care about pesticides?
- What’s the difference?
- Will washing and peeling help?
- How was this guide developed?
- Learn more at FoodNews.org