The Environmental Working Group (EWG) released its 2021 “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen” lists — a catalog of conventionally grown fruits and vegetables with the highest and lowest amounts of pesticide residue.
More than 90 percent of produce sampled, including strawberries, apples, cherries, spinach, nectarines, and leafy greens, tested positive for two or more pesticides.
This year’s study revealed that strawberries topped the “Dirty Dozen” list for the fifth year in row while leafy greens are among the most contaminated produce. A single sample of conventional kale, collard greens and mustard greens was found to contain 20 different pesticides.
The study also found a number of harmful fungicides in citrus fruits. The fungicide imazalil, for example, was detected on nearly 90 percent of EWG-sampled citrus. The fungicide disrupts the endocrine system and is recognized by the EPA as a likely carcinogen. Of the conventional citrus fruits tested by EWG, mandarins, followed by oranges and grapefruit, were found to have the highest levels of fungicides.
Eating plenty of fresh produce is an essential part of daily nutrition. “Whenever possible, shoppers should opt for organic produce,” says EWG toxicologist Thomas Galligan.
“When organic produce is not available or affordable, shoppers can use EWG’s ‘Clean Fifteen’ list to find conventional fruits and vegetables that are relatively low in pesticides.”
The Dirty Dozen:
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Kale, collard and mustard greens
- Nectarines
- Apples
- Grapes
- Cherries
- Peaches
- Pears
- Bell and hot peppers
- Tomatoes
- Celery
The Clean Fifteen:
- Avocados
- Sweet corn
- Pineapples
- Onions
- Papaya
- Sweet peas
- Eggplants
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Kiwi
- Cauliflower
- Mushrooms
- Honeydew melons
- Cantaloupes
No comments:
Post a Comment