Dirty Dozen

The Dirty Dozen: 2018's List of Fruits and Veggies Highest in Pesticides

Introduction

The Dirty Dozen is an annual list compiled by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) that ranks the 12 fruits and vegetables with the highest levels of pesticide residue. This list is intended to help consumers make informed choices about the produce they buy and to encourage farmers to reduce their use of pesticides.

2018 Dirty Dozen List

The 2018 Dirty Dozen list includes the following fruits and vegetables:

1. Strawberries
2. Spinach
3. Kale
4. Nectarines
5. Apples
6. Grapes
7. Peaches
8. Cherries
9. Pears
10. Tomatoes
11. Celery
12. Potatoes

Why is the Dirty Dozen Important?

The Dirty Dozen list is important because it provides consumers with information about the pesticide levels in the produce they buy. This information can help consumers make informed choices about the produce they eat and to avoid foods with high levels of pesticide residue.

Pesticides can have a number of negative health effects, including developmental problems, reproductive problems, and cancer. Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of pesticides because their bodies are still developing.

How to Reduce Your Exposure to Pesticides

There are a number of things you can do to reduce your exposure to pesticides:

• Buy organic produce whenever possible.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.
• Peel fruits and vegetables before eating them.
• Cook fruits and vegetables to reduce pesticide levels.
• Avoid eating processed foods that contain high levels of pesticides.

Conclusion

The Dirty Dozen list is a valuable resource for consumers who want to make informed choices about the produce they buy. By following the tips above, you can reduce your exposure to pesticides and protect your health.