The Environmental Working Group (EWG) annually releases its Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce, which includes the "Dirty Dozen" and "Clean Fifteen" lists. These lists are meant to help consumers prioritize buying organic versions of fruits and vegetables that tend to carry the most pesticide residue. The question of are russet potatoes part of the dirty dozen is particularly relevant due to a significant update in the 2025 guide. Potatoes, after being off the top 12 list for a period, were re-added in 2025, largely because of the widespread detection of the chemical chlorpropham.
Why Potatoes Rejoined the Dirty Dozen
The primary reason for potatoes' return to the Dirty Dozen list is the discovery of high concentrations of the sprout inhibitor chlorpropham. While most Dirty Dozen items carry a variety of pesticides, the data on potatoes was quite specific. In tests conducted between 2022 and 2023, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) found that 90% of potato samples contained chlorpropham. The European Union (EU) banned this chemical in 2019 due to health concerns for consumers and agricultural workers, citing potential endocrine-disrupting effects.
The Role of Chlorpropham
Chlorpropham is a post-harvest chemical applied to conventionally grown potatoes to prevent them from sprouting during storage. This is common for many russet potatoes, which are known for their longer storage life. Despite washing and scrubbing, this chemical residue persists on the potatoes. The EWG's methodology considers not only the amount but also the toxicity of detected pesticides, and the high concentration of a chemical banned in other regions was a key factor in the new ranking.
Using the Dirty Dozen Guide for Potatoes
The EWG's guide is a tool for consumers to make choices based on their priorities and budget. For those who want to minimize pesticide exposure, buying organic russet potatoes is a direct solution. For others, a deeper understanding of the risks and preparation methods can provide a balanced approach. It is important to remember that the presence of pesticides does not necessarily mean the food is unsafe, as regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set safety thresholds. However, some groups, including the EWG, question whether these thresholds are adequate, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Comparing Conventional and Organic Russet Potatoes
| Feature | Conventional Russet Potatoes | Organic Russet Potatoes |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticide Residue | High levels of chlorpropham and other residues detected even after washing. | Grown without synthetic pesticides, resulting in significantly lower residue levels. |
| Storage | Treated with chemicals like chlorpropham to prevent sprouting during long-term storage. | Sprout more quickly due to the absence of sprout inhibitors. |
| Cost | Typically less expensive due to industrial-scale farming practices. | Generally more expensive, reflecting the costs of organic farming methods. |
| Preparation | Needs thorough washing and scrubbing, especially if eating the skin. | Thoroughly washed before cooking; no concern over synthetic pesticide residues. |
| Nutritional Profile | Contains vitamins, minerals, and fiber, but some studies suggest potential nutritional differences based on farming methods. | Potentially higher levels of certain vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds, according to some studies. |
How to Reduce Pesticide Residue on Conventional Potatoes
For those who continue to purchase conventional russet potatoes, proper washing and cooking can help mitigate some of the pesticide residue. The FDA recommends rinsing produce under running water. For potatoes, which grow underground, soaking first and then scrubbing with a vegetable brush is particularly effective for removing dirt and surface-level chemicals. Peeling the potato is also an option, as many pesticide residues are concentrated on the skin. A solution of baking soda and water has also been shown to be effective in removing some residues.
Conclusion
In conclusion, yes, russet potatoes are now part of the Dirty Dozen list, according to the EWG's 2025 guide, primarily because of the high prevalence of the sprout inhibitor chlorpropham. For health-conscious consumers, this new information may influence shopping habits toward buying organic potatoes or focusing on proper preparation for conventional varieties. While eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is important regardless of how they are grown, being aware of lists like the Dirty Dozen allows consumers to make more mindful decisions based on their budget, priorities, and tolerance for chemical exposure.
Actionable Takeaways for Smart Shopping
- For budget shoppers: If organic isn't an option, remember that washing and scrubbing can reduce a significant amount of residue on conventional potatoes.
- For skin-on recipes: When making dishes that use the potato skin, like baked potatoes or roasted potatoes, consider buying organic russets to minimize pesticide exposure from the surface.
- For peeling: If you plan on peeling your potatoes, the choice between organic and conventional is less critical regarding surface pesticide residue, but organic may still be preferred for its sustainable farming methods.
- For storage: Conventional potatoes are treated to prevent sprouting, but organic potatoes will likely sprout faster and should be used more quickly.
- For alternative washing: Consider using a baking soda wash (1 teaspoon baking soda to 2 cups water) for a more thorough cleaning of conventional potatoes.
By understanding the reasoning behind the Dirty Dozen inclusion and implementing simple preparation steps, you can confidently include potatoes in your healthy diet.
