The Environmental Working Group (EWG) recently published their updated shopper’s guide to pesticides.

The “Dirty Dozen” comprise the 12-most contaminated fruits and vegetables. EWG research has found that people who eat these 12 fruits and vegetables (conventionally grown) consume, on average, 10 pesticides a day.

1. Peach
2. Apple
3. Bell Pepper
4. Celery
5. Nectarine
6. Strawberries
7. Cherries
8. Kale
9. Lettuce
10. Grapes (imported)
11. Carrot
12. Pear

The “Cleanest Group” comprises 15 fruits and vegetables that are lowest in pesticides. EWG research found that people who eat the 15 least contaminated conventionally grown fruits and vegetables ingest fewer that 2 pesticides daily.

1. Onion
2. Avocado
3. Pineapple
4. Mango
5. Asparagus
6. Sweet Peas
7. Kiwi
8. Cabbage
9. Eggplant
10. Papaya
11. Watermelon
12. Broccoli
13. Tomato
14. Sweet Potato

Buying organic can be more expensive and more difficult to find then buying conventionally grown produce. This list, however, allows consumer to make informed choices at the grocery store or farmer’s market when it comes to prioritizing which produce to buy organic. For more information visit: www.foodnews.org