Are Green Beans on the Clean List? Separating Fact from List-Based Fears

December 11, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), green beans were included on its 'Dirty Dozen' list in recent years, a surprising development for many health-conscious shoppers. So, are green beans on the clean list? The simple answer is no, but understanding the nuance behind these lists is crucial for making informed decisions about your produce and overall health.

Quick Summary

Green beans have appeared on the Environmental Working Group's 'Dirty Dozen' list, indicating they are among conventionally grown produce with the most pesticide residues. This placement, however, needs context, as it doesn't mean the beans are unsafe, but rather a guide for prioritizing organic purchases. Smart shopping and proper washing techniques are key to reducing exposure and getting maximum nutritional benefit.

Key Points

Dirty Dozen Status: Green beans were added to the 'Dirty Dozen' list by the EWG in recent years, signaling higher pesticide residues on conventional varieties.
Pesticide Concerns: Tests have detected multiple pesticides on green beans, including some, like acephate, banned for use on the vegetable.
Organic vs. Conventional: Conventional produce, including green beans, often has higher pesticide residues, but is still regulated for safety. Organic varieties have lower residue levels but come at a higher cost.
Proper Washing is Key: Regardless of whether you buy organic or conventional, always wash green beans thoroughly under cold, running water to minimize pesticides, dirt, and bacteria.
Health Benefits: Green beans are a nutrient-rich vegetable packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that support heart health and digestion, and their benefits outweigh concerns over trace pesticide levels.
Informed Choice: The EWG's lists are a guide, not a warning to avoid; it is most important to incorporate plenty of vegetables into your diet, organic or not.

Understanding the 'Dirty Dozen' and 'Clean Fifteen'

For years, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has published its Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce, which includes two lists: the 'Dirty Dozen' and the 'Clean Fifteen'. These lists are designed to help consumers prioritize which produce to buy organic based on pesticide residue levels found in U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) testing. The placement of green beans on the 'Dirty Dozen' list has raised many questions, as they are a staple in many healthy diets. Their inclusion is based on analysis of thousands of samples, some showing multiple pesticide types, including some banned organophosphates.

The Reason for Green Beans' Inclusion

Recent EWG reports have highlighted concerning findings regarding pesticide residue on conventionally grown green beans. Specifically, test results have shown traces of acephate, a neurotoxic insecticide that the EPA banned for use on green beans over a decade ago. The EWG noted that some samples contained acephate at levels significantly higher than the EPA limit, raising questions about the regulatory system. In addition to acephate, other pesticides banned in the European Union but still permitted in the U.S. were detected, such as carbendazim and bifenthrin. These findings, including the high number of different pesticides found on the crop, are what led to green beans' inclusion on the 'Dirty Dozen' list.

Deciding Between Organic and Conventional Green Beans

The decision to purchase organic or conventional green beans involves weighing cost, pesticide exposure concerns, and nutritional value. While the EWG's list flags higher pesticide residues on conventional versions, many food scientists and regulators emphasize that residue levels on all produce, conventional and organic, are well below the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) safety recommendations. The key is to reduce potential exposure to chemicals and bacteria with proper preparation, regardless of farming method.

Proper Washing Techniques

Experts recommend washing all produce, whether it's organic or conventional. Simply rinsing green beans in a colander under cold, running water and gently rubbing them is an effective method. For a more thorough cleaning, a baking soda solution can be used, followed by a final rinse. Proper washing is also crucial for removing dirt and bacteria that can cause illness.

The Health Benefits of Green Beans

Despite the pesticide concerns with conventional varieties, green beans are a nutrient-dense food with numerous health benefits that shouldn't be overlooked. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, folate, and antioxidants. These nutrients contribute to heart health, digestive wellness, and strong bones. A cup of green beans is low in calories, making it a healthy addition to any meal plan. The health benefits of consuming fruits and vegetables far outweigh the risks associated with minimal pesticide exposure.

Comparison Table: Organic vs. Conventional Green Beans


Feature	Organic Green Beans	Conventional Green Beans
Pesticide Residue	Lower levels, using only approved natural pesticides.	Higher levels, using synthetic pesticides.
Cost	Typically higher due to farming methods.	Generally more affordable.
Nutritional Value	No significant difference in macro or micronutrients compared to conventional.	No significant difference in macro or micronutrients compared to organic.
Environmental Impact	Generally considered more environmentally friendly.	Can have a higher environmental impact from synthetic chemical use.
Washing Required	Still requires washing to remove dirt and bacteria.	Requires thorough washing to reduce pesticide and bacteria levels.

Conclusion: Making Informed Choices

While green beans are not on the 'clean list' according to the EWG's recent assessments, this does not mean they should be avoided. The lists serve as a helpful guide for shoppers concerned about pesticide exposure, prompting them to consider organic options for certain items. The most important takeaway is to prioritize consuming a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, regardless of whether they are organic or conventional. By purchasing from reputable sources, washing your produce properly, and understanding the context behind the 'Dirty Dozen' label, you can continue to enjoy the nutritional benefits of green beans without unnecessary fear. For more detailed information on pesticide testing and regulations, resources like the USDA's website are available.

USDA Pesticide Data Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Green beans were added to the Dirty Dozen list after recent tests by the USDA found that conventionally grown samples contained a high number of pesticide residues. Some of the detected chemicals, such as acephate, have been banned for use on green beans, and others are prohibited in Europe, contributing to their placement on the list.

No, being on the Dirty Dozen list does not mean green beans are unsafe to eat. Regulatory bodies, like the EPA, set tolerance levels for pesticide residues, and levels found on produce are generally well below these limits. The list is a guide for shoppers who wish to minimize their exposure to pesticides, especially by prioritizing organic purchases of these items.

The choice to buy organic green beans is a personal one. For those concerned about pesticide residue, buying organic offers a way to reduce exposure. However, conventional green beans are still safe to eat, and it is more important to include vegetables in your diet than to avoid them based solely on farming method.

The best way to wash green beans is by rinsing them thoroughly under cold, running water in a colander. Gently rubbing the beans with your hands helps to dislodge dirt and surface-level contaminants. Some experts suggest a soak in a baking soda solution for a deeper clean.

There is no significant nutritional difference in vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients between organic and conventionally grown green beans. The primary distinction lies in the farming methods and the potential level of pesticide residue.

Green beans are a low-calorie, nutrient-rich food that is an excellent source of vitamins C, A, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. They support heart health, aid in digestion, and contribute to strong bones.

When consumed properly, green beans have minimal risks. However, they contain a toxic protein called phasin in their raw state, which is neutralized by cooking. Additionally, those on blood thinners should be mindful of their vitamin K intake from green beans.