The Dirty Dozen and Clean 15

The Dirty Dozen

Is a list developed by leading food gurus to help us learn which produce we should always buy organic. The vegetables and fruits on this list have the most pesticide residue, which can harm your health and cause digestive and bronchial issues. The Clean 15 lists produce that is typically safe to buy non-organic.

Let’s talk organic! You can reduce the amount of toxins you eat by buying organic fruits and veggies whenever possible to avoid consuming pesticides. Buying organic may cost more, but it is an investment in your health. Still, organic is more important for some fruits and vegetables over others. Take the lists below with you when you shop!

The Dirty Dozen 

Food guru Dr. Andrew Weil, among other leading health experts, recommends that we buy organic for the following dozen fruits and veggies:

1. Apples
2. Strawberries
3. Grapes
4. Celery
5. Peaches
6. Spinach
7. Sweet bell peppers
8. Nectarines
9. Cucumbers
10. Cherry tomatoes
11. Snap peas
12. Potatoes

In addition, HOT PEPPERS, KALE, COLLARD GREENS and BLUEBERRIES are top ORGANIC priorities, because they may contain organophosphate insecticides, which are characterized as “highly toxic” and of special concern.

The Clean 15 

Dr. Weill and other health experts further suggest these “Clean 15” — foods you don’t necessarily have to buy organic:

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

Take these lists with you or keep them on your mobile phone, so the next time you’re in the supermarket you can pull up this information and be an educated consumer!