Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen: What You Need to Know in 2024

When trying to eat healthier, choosing the right fruits and vegetables can feel overwhelming. That’s where the Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen lists come in handy. These two lists, published annually by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), help you make better decisions about which produce is safer to eat and which should be bought organic. Understanding these lists can help you reduce exposure to harmful pesticides and toxins, especially when organic options aren’t always available or affordable.

What Are the Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen?

The Dirty Dozen refers to the top 12 fruits and vegetables that are most likely to contain high levels of pesticides when grown conventionally. These crops are often sprayed with pesticides during their growth, leaving behind harmful residues. On the other hand, the Clean 15 consists of produce that contains little to no pesticide residue, even when grown conventionally.

For 2024, the Dirty Dozen includes:

1. Strawberries
2. Spinach
3. Kale, collard, and mustard greens
4. Peaches
5. Pears
6. Nectarines
7. Apples
8. Grapes
9. Bell and hot peppers
10. Cherries
11. Blueberries
12. Green beans

These are the foods you should try to buy organic to reduce pesticide exposure.

The Clean 15 list includes:

1. Avocados
2. Sweet corn
3. Pineapples
4. Onions
5. Papayas
6. Sweet peas (frozen)
7. Asparagus
8. Honeydew melons
9. Kiwis
10. Cabbage
11. Mushrooms
12. Mangoes
13. Sweet potatoes
14. Watermelon
15. Carrots

These are considered safer to buy conventionally, as they tend to have little to no pesticide residue.

Why Are Pesticides a Concern?

Pesticides are chemicals used to protect crops from insects, weeds, and other threats. While they help produce more food, these chemicals can linger on the fruits and vegetables we eat. Long-term exposure to pesticides is linked to serious health problems such as hormone disruption, neurological damage, and an increased risk of certain cancers. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Dioxins are environmental pollutants. They belong to the so-called ‘dirty dozen’ – a group of dangerous chemicals known as persistent organic pollutants (POPs).” Dioxins are especially concerning because they can remain in the body for years, potentially harming several organs.

Pesticide exposure has been associated with reproductive and developmental issues, as well as damage to the immune system. This makes it crucial to be mindful of what we consume and where our food comes from.

How to Use the Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen Lists

Using the Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen lists is simple and effective when shopping for produce:

• Prioritize organic for Dirty Dozen items: Since these items are most contaminated with pesticides, it’s worth spending the extra money to buy organic versions. For example, strawberries and apples are often grown with multiple pesticides, so buying organic can help reduce your exposure.
• Save money on Clean 15 produce: For the Clean 15, feel free to buy conventional versions. Items like avocados and sweet corn naturally have lower pesticide levels, even when grown conventionally. This can help you stick to a budget while still eating clean.

Tips for Minimizing Pesticide Exposure

Even when buying conventional produce, you can reduce your pesticide exposure with these simple tips:

• Wash thoroughly: Rinse fruits and vegetables under running water and scrub them with a brush to remove surface pesticides.
• Peel produce: For fruits and veggies like apples and potatoes, peeling the skin can remove some pesticide residues.
• Choose local when possible: Shopping at farmers’ markets may give you access to fresh, locally grown produce that uses fewer pesticides.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen lists is a great way to protect your health and make smart choices when buying fruits and vegetables. By reducing pesticide exposure, you can help lower the risk of serious health problems linked to these toxic chemicals. Whether you’re buying organic or conventional, these lists provide a practical guide to eating cleaner and safer in 2024. Get budget friendly tips on shopping clean.