What is the 'Dirty Dozen' List?
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a non-profit organization that releases an annual 'Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce', which includes the highly publicized 'Dirty Dozen' and 'Clean Fifteen' lists. The lists rank popular fruits and vegetables based on the level of pesticide contamination found in tests conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The 'Dirty Dozen' represents the 12 items with the highest pesticide load, while the 'Clean Fifteen' lists the items with the least. The EWG’s ranking methodology is based on factors such as the percentage of samples tested with detectable pesticides, the average number of pesticides found on a single sample, and the maximum number of pesticides found on a single sample. The guide is meant to help consumers prioritize which produce items to buy organic if they are concerned about pesticide exposure.
Tomato’s History with the Dirty Dozen
While the current 2025 list has changed, tomatoes are no strangers to the Dirty Dozen list. In previous years, such as 2016 and 2019, tomatoes and cherry tomatoes were specifically identified for containing multiple pesticide residues and for having higher concentrations than other produce. Reasons for a food's inclusion can vary, but factors like how the crop is grown, its susceptibility to pests, and the thinness of the skin can all play a role. A tomato's delicate, porous skin and high use in conventional agriculture have historically made it a candidate for higher pesticide levels.
Are Tomatoes on the Dirty Dozen List for 2025?
As of the 2025 EWG report, tomatoes are not included on the official 'Dirty Dozen' list. The latest list is based on recent USDA testing data and features other produce items such as spinach, strawberries, and kale. This fluctuation is normal, as the list is a dynamic tool reflecting current testing data rather than a fixed ranking. The removal of tomatoes from the list for a specific year does not mean pesticides are never present, but that they did not meet the criteria for being in the top twelve for that reporting period.
How to Handle and Wash Tomatoes Properly
Even when conventionally grown tomatoes are not on the Dirty Dozen list, practicing good food hygiene is essential for safety. Here are some steps you can take to minimize exposure to dirt, bacteria, and any residual pesticides:
- Rinse thoroughly: Wash tomatoes under cold, running tap water. The FDA does not recommend using soap or detergents.
- Use a baking soda soak: A study found that a baking soda solution is effective at removing some surface pesticides. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda for every two cups of water and soak for 12 to 15 minutes, followed by a final rinse.
- Rub gently: For firm produce like larger tomatoes, gently rub the surface with your hands or a soft brush while rinsing.
- Wash right before use: It's best to wash produce just before you eat or cook with it, rather than when you store it, to prevent spoilage.
Dirty Dozen vs. Clean Fifteen: Making Smarter Choices
To better understand where tomatoes currently stand, it’s helpful to compare the two lists. The following table highlights the differences between the current Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen, based on the 2025 EWG report.
| Feature | Dirty Dozen (2025) | Clean Fifteen (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticide Residue | High levels detected | Low levels detected |
| Items Included | Strawberries, Spinach, Kale, Collard & Mustard Greens, Grapes, Peaches, Pears, Nectarines, Apples, Blackberries, Blueberries, Potatoes | Pineapple, Sweet Corn, Avocados, Papaya, Onion, Sweet Peas (frozen), Asparagus, Cabbage, Watermelon, Cauliflower, Bananas, Mangoes, Carrots, Mushrooms, Kiwi |
| EWG Recommendation | Buy organic version when possible | Conventional version is lower pesticide priority |
Beyond the Lists: The Importance of Eating Fruits and Vegetables
It is important to remember that the benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whether conventional or organic, far outweigh the potential risks from pesticide exposure. The EWG itself emphasizes this point. Conventional produce, including tomatoes, generally contains pesticide residue well below the safe limits established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The 'Dirty Dozen' list is a guide for conscious consumerism, not a reason to avoid healthy foods. For those seeking to minimize their footprint and exposure, supporting organic farming practices is an option. However, for everyone, proper washing is a simple and effective step toward reducing risk.
Conclusion: Making Informed Choices About Your Produce
So, while tomatoes have been on the Dirty Dozen in the past, they are not on the most recent 2025 list. This doesn't mean conventional tomatoes are entirely pesticide-free, but it does mean they are not currently among the top twelve most contaminated items. Consumers can choose to purchase organic tomatoes to further reduce pesticide concerns or simply rely on effective washing methods for conventionally grown produce. By staying informed about the EWG lists and prioritizing healthy eating, you can make the best choices for your diet and health, with or without concerns about whether tomatoes are on the dirty dozen.
