The Environmental Working Group (EWG) annually analyzes the latest USDA data to compile its well-known Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen lists. These lists categorize fruits and vegetables based on their likelihood of containing high pesticide residues, offering consumers valuable insights into their produce choices.
Before delving into the 2024 findings, it's important to note that these lists are intended as guidance rather than strict rules. While it's wise to prioritize organic options for items on the Dirty Dozen list, it's crucial to emphasize that consuming conventionally grown fruits and vegetables is still preferable to avoiding them altogether. Research, such as a study conducted by the Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, underscores the importance of this balanced approach, especially for low-income shoppers who may be dissuaded from purchasing any produce after exposure to pesticide messaging.
Instead, view these lists as tools to inform your shopping decisions. If you're working with a limited budget, the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 can help you allocate your funds toward organic produce where it matters most for health reasons. However, it's worth considering organic options for environmental and labor rights concerns as well.
Now, let's explore the updated lists:
The 2024 Dirty Dozen
The EWG analyzed USDA data on 46 popular fruits and vegetables, finding that 75% of non-organic produce in the U.S. contained pesticide residues after washing. The Dirty Dozen list ranks produce based on various factors, including the percentage of samples with detectable pesticides and the average number of pesticides found.
This year's Dirty Dozen includes:
Strawberries
Spinach
Kale, collard, and mustard greens
Grapes
Peaches
Pears
Nectarines
Apples
Bell & Hot Peppers
Cherries
Blueberries
Green Beans
All items on the Dirty Dozen had detectable pesticide residues, with some samples containing up to 23 different pesticides.
The 2024 Clean 15
On the other hand, the Clean 15 consists of produce with the lowest pesticide residues. Notably, many items on this list have protective outer layers that are removed before consumption.
This year's Clean 15 includes:
Avocados
Sweet corn
Pineapple
Onions
Papaya
Sweet peas (frozen)
Asparagus
Honeydew melon
Kiwi
Cabbage
Watermelon
Mushrooms
Mangoes
Sweet potatoes
Carrots
Nearly 65% of samples from the Clean 15 showed no detectable pesticide residues.
In conclusion, while the Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen lists offer valuable insights into pesticide exposure, they should be used as part of a balanced approach to food choices. Prioritizing organic options for certain items can minimize pesticide exposure, but the overall goal should always be to consume a diverse array of fruits and vegetables for optimal health.