The Dirty Dozen & Clean 15: A Guide to Pesticides in Produce

When it comes to eating healthy, choosing fresh fruits and vegetables is a top priority. However, not all produce is grown equally—some contain higher levels of pesticides than others. Each year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases a list known as the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15, helping consumers make informed choices about what to buy organic and what’s safer to buy conventionally grown.

What is the Dirty Dozen?

The Dirty Dozen is a list of twelve fruits and vegetables that have been found to contain the highest levels of pesticide residues. These items are recommended to be purchased organic whenever possible to reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. The 2024 Dirty Dozen list includes:

1. Strawberries

2. Spinach

3. Kale, collard & mustard greens

4. Peaches

5. Pears

6. Nectarines

7. Apples

8. Grapes

9. Bell & hot peppers

10. Cherries

11. Blueberries

12. Green beans

These foods tend to have higher pesticide residues even after washing and peeling, making organic versions a better choice if available and affordable.

What is the Clean 15?

On the other hand, the Clean 15 list highlights produce that contains the lowest amounts of pesticides. These fruits and vegetables are generally considered safe to buy conventionally grown, as they have little to no detectable pesticide residue. The 2024 Clean 15 includes:

1. Avocados

2. Sweet corn

3. Pineapple

4. Onions

5. Papaya

6. Sweet peas (frozen)

7. Asparagus

8. Honeydew melon

9. Kiwi

10. Cabbage

11. Mushrooms

12. Mangoes

13. Watermelon

14. Sweet potatoes

15. Carrots

Since these foods naturally contain fewer pesticide residues, buying conventional versions can be a budget-friendly way to maintain a healthy diet without excessive chemical exposure.

Why Does This Matter?

Pesticides are used to protect crops from pests and disease, but they can also have negative effects on human health, particularly for children and pregnant women. While washing produce can help remove some pesticide residues, certain fruits and vegetables absorb more chemicals than others. By following the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists, you can prioritize which foods to buy organic while still maintaining a nutritious and affordable diet.

Final Thoughts

Being mindful of pesticide exposure doesn’t mean you need to eliminate fresh produce from your diet. The key is balance—choosing organic when it matters most and saving money on conventionally grown items that are naturally lower in pesticides. The Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists are valuable tools for making informed decisions that support both your health and your wallet.

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