Have You Heard of the Dirty Dozen & Clean 15?
Each year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) reviews thousands of produce samples from the USDA to see which items carry the most pesticide residues. They then rank them:
Dirty Dozen – items most likely to have detectable pesticide residues.
Clean 15 – items least likely to have residues.
It’s not about nutrition or flavor—it’s about patterns of pesticide detection.
Which Fruits and Veggies Are on the Lists?
Clean 15 favorites include:
Avocado
Pineapple
Sweet corn
Onions
Papaya
Bananas
Watermelon
Frozen sweet peas
Eggplant
Asparagus
Kiwi
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Mushrooms
Mango
These tend to have fewer pesticides, making them good budget-friendly picks if organic isn’t an option.
Dirty Dozen examples include:
Strawberries
Spinach
Kale, collard, and mustard greens
Nectarines
Apples
Grapes
Cherries
Peaches
Pears
Bell and hot peppers
Celery
Tomatoes
These often have multiple residues, so buying organic can make sense if you’re trying to limit exposure.
On a Budget?
Here’s the key: eating more produce—organic or conventional—is linked to better health. Fruits and vegetables support your immune system, gut health, and metabolism.
While organic produce has lower pesticide levels, conventional produce still provides essential nutrients and antioxidants. Washing and peeling can help reduce surface residues, too.
Shopping Tips
Focus organic purchases on Dirty Dozen items.
Enjoy the Clean 15 with confidence—they’re low in residues.
Wash everything—fresh water and gentle scrubbing go a long way.
Remember: eating more fruits and vegetables is always better than skipping them due to pesticide concerns.
How to Wash Produce Safely
All produce benefits from proper washing. Here’s how:
Rinse under cold running water
Gently rub each item to remove dirt and microbes.
This alone removes many surface pesticides.
Use a brush for firm produce
Apples, carrots, cucumbers, and potatoes can be scrubbed with a clean produce brush.
Soak leafy greens briefly
Place in a large bowl of water and swish gently. Repeat if very sandy.
Add baking soda (optional)
Soak in 1 tsp baking soda per 2 cups water for 12–15 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly afterward.
Peel if desired
Peeling can remove surface residues but also removes fiber and some nutrients, so weigh pros and cons.
Dry with a clean towel or paper towel
Reduces remaining microbes and moisture that could promote spoilage.
Using the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists as a guide can help you make practical, budget-friendly choices without sacrificing health.
