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“The Dirty Dozen” – 12 Foods Most Contaminated by Pesticides (And If You Should Grow Them Yourself)

For many, eating fruits and vegetables is a pillar of a healthy diet. Yet, some of these nutrient-packed foods may come with an unwanted side: heavy pesticide contamination. Based on recent studies by the EWG’s Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce, here’s a ranking of the top 12 most pesticide-laden foods. We’ve also looked at whether these items are worth growing yourself to avoid the chemical residues.

12. Green Beans

12. Green Beans
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Green beans are a versatile vegetable found in most kitchens, but recent studies show that 90% of green bean samples tested positive for pesticide residues, some containing up to 16 different chemicals. The good news is green beans are easy to grow organically, making them a great option for beginner gardeners. Growing them at home can help you avoid the pesticide load often found in store-bought beans.

11. Blueberries

11. Blueberries
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Blueberries are popular for their antioxidant benefits, but they are also one of the more pesticide-prone fruits. Some pesticides found on blueberries are toxic to the nervous system and banned in parts of Europe. Blueberries require acidic soil, making them a bit challenging to grow, but with some knowledge, a home gardener can cultivate a crop free from these harmful chemicals.

10. Cherries

10. Cherries
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Cherries are delicious but are often treated with fungicides and other pesticides, including some banned in Europe. They require a specific climate to grow well, especially in terms of cool temperatures. However, if you have the right climate and are up for the challenge, growing cherries can yield a beautiful, organic treat.

9. Bell and Hot Peppers

9. Bell and Hot Peppers
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Both bell peppers and hot peppers can contain high levels of pesticide residues, with over 100 types detected in samples. Hot peppers are easier to grow organically, as their natural spiciness deters many pests. Bell peppers, however, may require more effort due to their vulnerability to pests. If you have the patience, growing these yourself can ensure a healthier, cleaner harvest.

8. Apples

8. Apples
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Apples contain a chemical called diphenylamine, commonly used to prevent browning. Though its long-term health effects are debated, many prefer to avoid the residue. Apples are relatively hardy trees, making them easy to grow organically at home. Dwarf apple trees are great for small spaces and even containers, so they’re a good candidate for home growing.

7. Nectarines

7. Nectarines
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Nectarines, a close relative to peaches, are another fruit frequently found on pesticide-heavy lists. Over 90% of nectarine samples showed two or more pesticide residues. Thankfully, nectarine trees are relatively easy to grow and can even be cultivated in pots, offering a cleaner alternative to store-bought fruit.

6. Pears

6. Pears
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Pear samples have shown increasing levels of pesticides in recent years. In 2022, 61% of pear samples contained pesticide residues, up significantly from previous years. While pears thrive in certain climates, such as those with cool winters, growing them at home is possible if you’re in the right region. If you’re in a warmer climate, consider growing nashi pears, which can also help you avoid pesticide exposure.

5. Peaches

5. Peaches
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Peaches often carry a heavy pesticide load, with 99% of samples showing some level of contamination. They’re easy to grow, especially in cooler regions, but protecting them from insects, birds, and other animals can require patience and persistence. Organic growers often use netting to keep pests at bay. If you can manage the care they need, homegrown peaches are worth the effort.

4. Grapes

4. Grapes
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Grapes are beloved for their sweetness, but almost 90% of samples show pesticide residues. Growing grapes at home can be challenging since they require regular pruning, pest protection, and suitable climate conditions. However, in the right environment, homegrown grapes can offer a healthier alternative to their store-bought counterparts.

3. Kale, Collards, and Mustard Greens

3. Kale, Collards, and Mustard Greens
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Kale, collards, and mustard greens are nutritional powerhouses, but they are also prone to pesticide contamination. Almost 60% of kale samples tested positive for the pesticide DCPA, banned in Europe for years. Thankfully, these leafy greens are easy to grow and often resistant to pests. If you’re a fan of greens, growing these yourself can provide you with a fresh, chemical-free source.

2. Spinach

2. Spinach
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Spinach is rich in vitamins but also notorious for pesticide contamination. Around 40% of tested spinach samples contained DDT, a toxic pesticide banned decades ago. Spinach grows well in most climates and is easy to cultivate at home, making it a viable crop for anyone looking to avoid the pesticide exposure common in store-bought spinach.

1. Strawberries

1. Strawberries
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Topping the list are strawberries, with an overwhelming number of pesticide residues, sometimes as many as 82 different types. Strawberries are easy to grow, with a wide tolerance for various soil types and climates. Homegrown strawberries offer a fantastic alternative to store-bought options, especially considering their vulnerability to pesticide contamination.

Is It Worth Growing Your Own?

Is It Worth Growing Your Own
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With so many common fruits and vegetables on the list, it’s no wonder many people are turning to home gardening. For those who can’t grow their own, seeking out organic produce or thoroughly washing fruits and vegetables can help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals. While pesticides are often necessary for large-scale farming, they are increasingly controversial due to their potential health impacts.

Do Pesticides Accumulate in the Body?

Do Pesticides Accumulate in the Body
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One concern that comes up is whether these chemicals build up in our bodies over time. While the exact health risks are still debated, it’s understandable to worry about the long-term effects of consuming low-level pesticides regularly. Growing food yourself, or buying from organic sources when possible, can limit this exposure.

A Helpful Guide

A Helpful Guide
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While this list may be sobering, it can serve as a helpful guide to prioritize what foods you might want to grow yourself or buy organic. For those who can’t access organic produce, washing fruits and vegetables can help, though it may not entirely remove systemic pesticides. Ultimately, being informed allows you to make choices that feel right for you and your family, whether that means starting a garden, buying local produce, or simply adding a few more organic options to your diet.