What Constitutes the Dirty Dozen?

The Dirty Dozen is a compilation created by the EWG, utilizing data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This list categorizes fruits and vegetables based on their pesticide residue levels. These residues can linger on conventionally farmed produce even after washing, posing health risks that can range from hormone disruption to cancer.

Here is this year's list!

The 2024 Dirty Dozen

1. Strawberries: Once again, strawberries top the list due to their significant pesticide contamination. Despite their health benefits, these berries often carry a mix of pesticides, raising concerns for consumers.
2. Spinach: A common staple noted for its nutritional perks, spinach unfortunately retains considerable pesticide residues, placing it on the Dirty Dozen.
3. Kale: Increasingly popular for its health advantages, kale is another leafy green where opting for organic is wise, as conventionally grown varieties are frequently tainted with pesticides.
4. Nectarines: These juicy treats may be delightful, but they often bear multiple pesticide residues, making them a concerning choice for the Dirty Dozen.
5. Apples: While the saying goes, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away," that may not hold if the apple is pesticide-laden. Apples consistently rank high on the Dirty Dozen, emphasizing the need for organic selections.
6. Grapes: Whether red or green, grapes are commonly treated with a variety of pesticides during growth, leading to their recurring presence on the Dirty Dozen list.
7. Peaches: With their tender skin and sweet interior, peaches are especially vulnerable to pesticide exposure, securing their place among the most contaminated fruits.
8. Cherries: These summer favorites may be enjoyable to eat, but they often contain pesticide residues, particularly when not grown organically.
9. Pears: Another fruit to be cautious of, pears frequently retain pesticide residues, making organic choices essential.
10. Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, tomatoes can contain pesticide residues, highlighting the importance of opting for organic varieties, especially for avid tomato consumers.
11. Celery: Although celery is low in calories and high in fiber, conventionally grown options often contain pesticide residues, necessitating caution during purchase.
12. Potatoes: A dietary staple for many, potatoes can harbor pesticide residues, particularly if grown conventionally. Choosing organic potatoes can help reduce this risk.

Making Informed Choices

While the Dirty Dozen brings attention to produce with higher pesticide residues, it’s crucial to remember that consuming a diverse range of fruits and vegetables—whether conventionally or organically grown—is vital for overall well-being. For those looking to lower pesticide exposure, it is advisable to select organic produce whenever possible.

Thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables under running water can assist in removing some pesticide residues, although certain chemicals may be more difficult to wash away. Peeling fruits and vegetables can also lessen pesticide exposure, but it's important to note that this may lead to the loss of valuable nutrients.

The 2024 Dirty Dozen serves as a reminder of the ongoing issue of pesticides in our food supply and the significance of making informed dietary choices to safeguard our health. While the list highlights produce with higher pesticide residues, maintaining a varied diet is essential for balanced nutrition. By prioritizing organic options and proper washing methods, consumers can reduce their exposure to harmful pesticides while enjoying the health benefits of fruits and vegetables.

Washing Guide for Fruits and Vegetables

Properly washing fruits and vegetables can help eliminate pesticides, dirt, bacteria, and other contaminants. Follow this step-by-step guide for effective washing:

1. Prepare your area: Begin by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Clean your sink or a large bowl with soap and water as well.
2. Sort and discard damaged items: Remove any fruits or vegetables that are bruised, damaged, or spoiled.
3. Rinse under running water: Hold your fruits and vegetables under a stream of cold running water to remove loose dirt, debris, and some surface pesticides.
4. Use a vegetable brush: For produce with thicker skins (like cucumbers or potatoes), gently scrub the surface with a clean vegetable brush to eliminate stubborn pesticides and dirt. Avoid using dish soap or other cleaning products.
5. Soak in a vinegar solution (optional): Some suggest soaking produce in a vinegar-water solution to help remove pesticides. Mix one part vinegar with three parts water and soak for 5–10 minutes. Rinse thoroughly afterward.
6. Peel or remove outer leaves (optional): Peeling or removing outer layers can further decrease pesticide exposure, although it may also remove some nutrients. If you choose to peel, wash the produce first.
7. Dry properly: After washing, pat your fruits and vegetables dry with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove excess moisture and inhibit bacteria growth.
8. Store correctly: Once washed and dried, store your produce in the refrigerator or at room temperature, depending on the type.

Keep in mind that while washing can reduce pesticide residues, it may not eliminate them entirely. Purchasing organic produce or growing your own fruits and vegetables can also significantly reduce pesticide exposure.

Encouraging Sustainable Practices

My goal is to motivate American households to replace their costly, aesthetically pleasing lawns—which can harm the environment, butterflies, and bees—with raised garden beds. Let’s embark on the journey of cultivating our own food! Not only will this help reduce grocery bills, but it will also provide your family with 100% organic nourishment while contributing to a healthier planet.