Organic fruits and vegetables are grown without the use of pesticides. You can find organic produce options in most grocery stores or at a farmer’s market.
The fruits and vegetables on “The Dirty Dozen” list, when conventionally grown, contain the most chemical traces from pesticides. Try to purchase these items organically when possible:
The Dirty Dozen:
Celery
Peaches
Apples
Strawberries
Blueberries
Nectarines
Bell peppers
Spinach
Kale
Cherries
Potatoes
Imported grapes
When you’re on a strict budget, but want to avoid as many pesticides as possible, reach for the “The Clean Fifteen” – that is, fifteen conventional fruits and vegetables that have little to no traces of pesticides. This are considered safer either because of a tough outer shell (think pineapple) or because minimal pesticides are used during the growing season.
The Clean Fifteen:
Avocadoes
Onions
Sweet corn
Pineapples
Mangoes
Sweet peas
Asparagus
Kiwi
Cabbage
Eggplant
Cantaloupe
Watermelon
Grapefruit
Sweet potatoes
Honeydew melons
You should always thoroughly wash all fruits and vegetables with water to avoid dirt and other residues. For more information on healthy eating visit www.choosemyplate.org or www.eatright.org.
