As a general rule, skinless or soft-skinned fruits and vegetables pose greater pesticide risk than produce with thick skins, shells, or peels that are not eaten. According to The Organic Center, imported berries, grapes, leafy greens, and other highly perishable foods have pesticide-residue scores as much as two or three times as high as the same domestically grown foods, so it’s worth noting where produce items come from.
Dirty Dozen (best to buy organic)
1. Celery
2. Peaches
3. Strawberries
4. Apples
5. Blueberries
6. Nectarines
7. Bell peppers
8. Spinach
9. Kale
10. Cherries
11. Potatoes
12. Grapes (imported)
Clean 15 (fewest pesticide residues)
1. Onions
2. Avocado
3. Sweet corn
4. Pineapples
5. Mango
6. Sweet peas
7. Asparagus
8. Kiwi fruit
9. Cabbage
10. Eggplant
11. Cantaloupe
12. Watermelon
13. Grapefruit
14. Sweet potatoes
15. Honeydew melon
Source: Environmental Working Group (foodnews.org)
