Understanding the Dirty Dozen and the Clean Fifteen
To understand why beets are not part of the Dirty Dozen, it's essential to first grasp what these lists represent. Created annually by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a non-profit organization, the lists serve as a guide for consumers navigating the world of conventional produce. The lists are compiled based on analysis of data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The Dirty Dozen
The Dirty Dozen is the list of 12 (and sometimes more) conventionally grown fruits and vegetables found to have the highest levels of pesticide residues, even after being washed. Consumers are typically advised to consider buying organic versions of these items to reduce their pesticide exposure. In 2025, the list included items like spinach, strawberries, and grapes, with blackberries and potatoes being notable newcomers.
The Clean Fifteen
On the other end of the spectrum is the Clean Fifteen, which identifies 15 types of conventional produce with the lowest levels of pesticide residue. These items are considered safe options to purchase conventionally grown. The 2025 Clean Fifteen includes foods like avocados, onions, sweet corn, and indeed, beets. Almost 60% of samples on this list have no detectable pesticide residues.
Why Beets Are on the Clean Fifteen
The placement of beets on the Clean Fifteen is no accident. Several factors contribute to their low pesticide profile:
- Protective Skin: As a root vegetable, beets grow underground and are protected by a thick, fibrous skin. This provides a natural barrier against topical pesticide applications. While the skin is in contact with soil chemicals, the outer layer is often removed before consumption, further reducing exposure.
- Cultivation Practices: Compared to other crops, beets are often incorporated into more complex crop rotations, which helps manage pests naturally without requiring as many chemicals. This farming practice inherently reduces the need for intensive pesticide use.
- USDA Testing Data: The EWG's conclusions are based on official USDA data, which consistently shows low levels of pesticide residue on beets. This objective, government-sourced data reinforces the vegetable's reputation as a clean food choice.
The Health Benefits of Beets
Even without worrying about pesticide residue, beets are a nutritional powerhouse packed with health benefits. They are rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals and offer significant support for overall well-being. Some of the key health advantages include:
- Supports Heart Health: Beets contain high levels of natural nitrates, which the body converts into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps to dilate blood vessels, which improves blood flow and can help lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease.
- Boosts Athletic Performance: The nitric oxide-boosting properties also enhance athletic stamina and performance, making beetroot juice a popular supplement among athletes.
- Aids Digestion: High in fiber, beets promote healthy gut bacteria and support regular digestion.
- Reduces Inflammation: Beets are a good source of betalains, antioxidants that possess strong anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate joint discomfort.
Comparison of Conventional vs. Organic Produce on the Lists
This table highlights the differences between produce on the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists, providing a clearer picture of what the EWG's guidance means for consumers.
| Feature | Dirty Dozen Produce | Clean Fifteen Produce (including beets) |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticide Residue | High levels, even after washing. | Low to no detectable residue. |
| EWG Recommendation | Buy organic version when possible. | OK to buy conventional version. |
| Typical Examples | Strawberries, spinach, grapes, peaches. | Avocados, onions, beets, pineapple. |
| Physical Characteristics | Often delicate skin or exposed surface (e.g., berries, leafy greens). | Often protected by thick, inedible skin (e.g., avocados, bananas) or grow underground (e.g., beets). |
The Bigger Picture: Don't Let Lists Deter You from Eating Produce
While the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists provide helpful guidance for minimizing pesticide exposure, it's crucial not to let them deter you from consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables. Decades of research consistently show that a diet high in produce, whether conventional or organic, leads to better health outcomes and a lower risk of chronic disease. The potential risks from pesticide residues on conventionally grown produce are very small, and the health benefits of eating these foods far outweigh them. The lists are best used as a guide for strategic purchasing rather than a reason to avoid certain foods altogether.
Safe Practices for All Produce
Whether you're eating a Clean Fifteen vegetable like a beet or a Dirty Dozen fruit like a strawberry, proper washing is always recommended to remove dirt and surface contaminants. A highly effective method is a simple baking soda soak.
Directions for Baking Soda Soak:
- Fill a large bowl with water.
- Add approximately one tablespoon of baking soda for every four cups of water and stir until dissolved.
- Submerge your produce and allow it to soak for 15 minutes.
- Rinse thoroughly under running water.
For root vegetables like beets, a vegetable brush can be used to scrub the skin clean before peeling or cooking.
Conclusion: Beets Are a Low-Pesticide, Nutrient-Rich Choice
To definitively answer the question, beets are not part of the Dirty Dozen. In fact, they are a consistent member of the Clean Fifteen list due to their low levels of pesticide residue. This makes them an excellent choice for consumers looking to reduce their exposure to agricultural chemicals without having to exclusively purchase organic versions. Regardless of whether you opt for organic or conventional, the most important takeaway is to prioritize a diet rich in a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Beets, with their numerous health benefits and low pesticide profile, can be a nutritious and confident addition to your meals. For more detailed information on the lists, you can consult the official EWG website, which provides an extensive breakdown of its methodology and findings.
