EWG Releases "Dirty Dozen" and "Clean 15" Lists of Fruits and Vegetables with the Highest Levels of Pesticide Residue

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) came out with its annual list of the “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean 15” fruits and vegetables lists yesterday. The “Dirty Dozen” list uncovers the 12 fruits and vegetables that contain the highest levels of pesticide residues, while the “Clean 15” reveals the produce with the least amount of residue. The EWG urges consumers to try and purchase organic Dirty Dozen fruits and veggies, but stresses that consuming any fruits and vegetables is better than consuming none. Ranked first on the list of “dirtiest” fruits and vegetables are apples, followed by celery, sweet bell peppers, and peaches. Among the Clean 15 are onions, sweet corn, pineapple, and avocado.

For the complete list, visit the EWG's Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce.