The EWG Released Its “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen” Lists for 2019

Every year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases a Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce report that details which fruits and veggies are the least—and most—contaminated by pesticides. The guide is designed to help you make healthy and informed choices, and reduce your exposure to toxic pesticides.

For the fourth year in a row, strawberries top the “Dirty Dozen” list of the most pesticide-tainted produce. Here’s the complete Dirty Dozen:

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

While pesticides boost crop yields, multiple studies have linked pesticides in produce to conditions like asthma, cancer, fertility issues and brain conditions. The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station recommends rinsing produce under water for 30 seconds to get rid of pesticide residues.

Here’s the EWG’s list of the cleanest produce you can purchase:

1. Avocados 
2. Sweet corn 
3.  Pineapples
4.  Sweet peas (frozen) 
5. Onions
6. Papayas
7. Eggplants
8. Asparagus
9. Kiwis 
10. Cabbage 
11. Cauliflower 
12. Cantaloupes
13. Broccoli 
14. Mushrooms 
15. Honeydew

Regardless of which list your favorite produce may be on, you should always properly clean your fruits and vegetables before enjoying them.