The "Dirty Dozen" and "Clean 15"

Ever wonder if pesticides really stay in and on your fresh produce? And, how hard are they to wash away?

The "Dirty Dozen" are the top 12 foods that had the most pesticide contamination AFTER they had been power-washed by the USDA.

The Dirty Dozen

1. Celery
2. Peaches
3. Strawberries
4. Apples
5. Domestic blueberries
6. Nectarines
7. Sweet bell peppers
8. Spinach, kale and collard greens
9. Cherries
10. Potatoes
11. Imported grapes
12. Lettuce

Not all non-organic fruits and vegetables have a super high pesticide levels. Some produce has a strong outer layer that provides some defense against pesticide contamination. Keep in mind that although some pesticides are found on the surface of foods, other pesticides may be taken up through the roots and into the plant and cannot be removed.

All organic is best, but buy the foods listed above in the organic section first if you are on a budget. The "Clean 15" had the least amount of pesticides so buy conventional when necessary.

The Clean 15

1. Onions
2. Avocados
3. Sweet corn
4. Pineapples
5. Mango
6. Sweet peas
7. Asparagus
8. Kiwi fruit
9. Cabbage
10. Eggplant
11. Cantaloupe
12. Watermelon
13. Grapefruit
14. Sweet potatoes
15. Sweet onions

Make sure to wash all fruits and veggies, organic or not, to remove bacteria, dirt and other contaminants.