Carrots and the Clean 15: What the Experts Say
Yes, carrots are in the Clean 15. The Environmental Working Group (EWG), which annually releases its Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce, has consistently included carrots on its list of produce with the lowest pesticide residue. This means that when it comes to prioritizing your organic purchases, conventionally grown carrots are a safer bet, and you don't need to prioritize buying the organic version.
The Clean 15 list is compiled by the EWG using testing data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These agencies test tens of thousands of samples of conventional fruits and vegetables for pesticide residue after they have been prepared for consumption, including washing and peeling. Carrots consistently rank well on these lists because, as a root vegetable, they are somewhat protected from certain pesticides used in farming, and any residue is further reduced by cleaning and peeling.
The Importance of the Clean 15
Understanding the Clean 15 and its counterpart, the Dirty Dozen, helps consumers make more informed and budget-friendly choices at the grocery store. While eating fruits and vegetables of any kind is important for overall health, these lists provide a guide for those looking to minimize their pesticide intake. This is particularly relevant for families with small children, pregnant women, or individuals with certain health conditions who may be more sensitive to pesticide exposure.
Other Produce on the 2025 Clean 15 List
The 2025 Clean 15 list includes a variety of other items alongside carrots that are generally safe to buy in their conventional form. This list allows shoppers to save their budget for organic versions of the Dirty Dozen items, which are identified as having the highest pesticide residues. The full list includes several common and affordable staples.
- List of 2025 Clean 15 Items:
- Pineapples
- Sweet Corn (fresh & frozen)
- Avocados
- Papaya
- Onions
- Sweet Peas (frozen)
- Asparagus
- Cabbage
- Watermelon
- Cauliflower
- Bananas
- Mangoes
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Kiwi
Carrots: A Safe and Healthy Choice
Beyond their low pesticide load, carrots are a nutritional powerhouse. They are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A, essential for vision, immune function, and skin health. They are also rich in fiber, Vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants. Because they are a root vegetable, their edible part is underground, which contributes to lower surface exposure to environmental factors and pesticides compared to leafy greens or soft-skinned fruits. Proper washing and, optionally, peeling can further reduce any remaining surface residue.
Clean 15 vs. Dirty Dozen Comparison
To highlight the difference in pesticide burden, let's compare the general characteristics of produce on the Clean 15 with those on the Dirty Dozen.
| Feature | Clean 15 Produce (e.g., Carrots) | Dirty Dozen Produce (e.g., Strawberries) |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticide Residue Level | Low to none detected | High, often multiple types found |
| Protection from Pesticides | Protected by outer skin or grows underground | Exposed skin, often thin and porous |
| Recommended Purchase | Conventional (non-organic) is a safe, budget-friendly option | Organic is recommended to minimize exposure |
| Average Samples with Residue | Almost 60% with no detectable residue | Most samples contain multiple pesticides |
How to Shop and Prepare Your Produce
While knowing which list a food falls on is helpful, good food safety practices are always essential. Here is a simple guide to incorporating both conventional and organic produce into your diet safely.
- Wash all produce: Regardless of whether it's organic or conventional, always wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly under running water before eating.
- Use a vegetable brush: For produce with firmer skin, like carrots, use a dedicated vegetable brush to scrub the surface.
- Consider peeling: Peeling conventionally grown carrots is an extra step that can further reduce any potential residue, although it is not always necessary given their low-ranking status.
- Know your sources: When possible, buying from local farmers markets or trusted vendors can provide more information about growing practices.
- Store properly: Storing produce correctly helps maintain its freshness and nutritional value. For carrots, this means keeping them in a cool, dark place or the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.
Conclusion
The answer to the question "Are carrots in Clean 15?" is a definitive yes, based on the latest data from the EWG's annual guide. For health-conscious and budget-minded shoppers alike, this means that conventionally grown carrots are a smart and safe addition to your grocery list. By understanding the distinction between the Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen, consumers can strategically plan their purchases to minimize pesticide exposure without needing to buy everything organic. Ultimately, including plenty of carrots and other vegetables in your diet is far more beneficial than avoiding them based on their pesticide ranking alone.
For more information on the methodology behind the EWG's lists, you can visit their official site.
