The Pesticide “Dirty Dozen”
The fruits and veggies most likely to have chemical residue
Food safety is about more than bacteria. Pesticides pose their own health risks, and while many toxic chemicals have been phased out of the agriculture process over the years, some harmful substances can still make it onto your table. With that in mind, the Environmental Protection Agency has developed a list of fruits and veggies with the highest pesticide loads. Its “Dirty Dozen” list (which now includes two additional veggies) suggests the produce that is best purchased organic to avoid pesticide residue.
Apples
Bell peppers
Celery
Cherry tomatoes
Cucumbers
Grapes
Hot peppers
Kale/collard greens
Nectarines
Peaches
Potatoes
Spinach
Strawberries
Summer squash
Source: Environmental Protection Agency
