All research agrees on the health benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables - they are essential to our health. Every year the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit that specializes in research in areas of agricultural subsidies, toxic chemicals and corporate accountability, releases two lists that many produce enthusiasts have come to depend on: The Clean Fifteen & The Dirty Dozen. These lists are guides for consumers to make the best choices for themselves and their families when purchasing conventional (non-organic) produce. They were designed as a resource to help us reduce our exposure to harmful chemicals in our foods. The foods on The Dirty Dozen list have tested positive for multiple pesticide residues. More than 90% of strawberries, apples, cherries, spinach, nectarines & kale tested positive for residues of at least 2 pesticides, even after washing. Pesticides have been proven to be harmful to our bodies and the environment. Try to avoid the Dirty Dozen and stick to the Clean Fifteen and purchase organic when your budget allows. Be sure to review this list each year, as it changes!
As an organization we try to be be extremely conscious about what we source conventionally. We rely on this list to help us in putting together the Share each week. In a way, we’re doing your shopping for you, and want to make the choices that we would make for ourselves.
Click here to read more about the Environmental Working Group and their work as well as more info on the Clean Fifteen & Dirty Dozen!
As an organization we try to be be extremely conscious about what we source conventionally. We rely on this list to help us in putting together the Share each week. In a way, we’re doing your shopping for you, and want to make the choices that we would make for ourselves.
Click here to read more about the Environmental Working Group and their work as well as more info on the Clean Fifteen & Dirty Dozen!
| The Clean Fifteen: Avocado Sweet Corn Pineapple Frozen Sweet Peas Onion Papaya Eggplant | Asparagus Kiwi Cabbage Cauliflower Broccoli Cantaloupe Honeydew Melon Mushrooms | The Dirty Dozen: Strawberries Spinach Kale Nectarines Apples Grapes | Peaches Cherries Pears Tomatoes Celery Potatoes |