What is the Dirty Dozen?
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a non-profit organization that releases an annual 'Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce'. This guide features two lists: the 'Dirty Dozen' and the 'Clean Fifteen'. The Dirty Dozen lists the 12 fruits and vegetables with the highest amount of pesticide residues found in conventional (non-organic) samples. The Clean Fifteen, conversely, highlights produce with the lowest amount of detectable pesticides. The purpose of this guide is to help consumers make more informed choices about their produce purchases and to potentially reduce their exposure to agricultural chemicals.
For the 2025 list, the EWG adjusted its ranking methodology to consider the toxicity of the pesticides found, not just their concentration or frequency. This change, based on new data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), led to several changes in the annual lists, including the addition of blackberries.
Blackberries: A Newcomer to the Dirty Dozen
In 2025, blackberries officially earned their place on the Dirty Dozen list for the first time. This addition came after the USDA tested non-organic blackberries in 2023, the first time this produce item had been included in the USDA's routine testing. The results were concerning, with the EWG's analysis revealing several key findings:
- Widespread Contamination: A significant 93 percent of conventional blackberry samples tested contained at least one detectable pesticide residue.
- Multiple Pesticides: Over 80 percent of the samples contained two or more different pesticides.
- Average Pesticide Load: On average, more than four different pesticides were detected on each blackberry sample.
Concerning Pesticides Found on Blackberries
EWG's analysis identified some particularly worrying pesticides on the blackberry samples, raising health concerns related to neurological and developmental health:
- Cypermethrin: This synthetic pyrethroid insecticide was found on over half of the conventional samples. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies it as a possible human carcinogen.
- Malathion: An organophosphate insecticide linked to neurodevelopmental harm, especially in early development. It was classified as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer in 2015.
- Acetamiprid: A neonicotinoid insecticide, toxic to pollinators and linked to reproductive and neurodevelopmental harm.
Comparison: Conventional Dirty Dozen vs. Clean Fifteen Produce
For consumers weighing their produce purchasing options, the difference between conventional Dirty Dozen items and Clean Fifteen items is significant. Here is a comparison based on the EWG's 2025 findings:
| Feature | Conventional Dirty Dozen Produce (Incl. Blackberries) | Clean Fifteen Produce (e.g., Avocado, Pineapple) |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticide Residue Detection | Residues detected on nearly 96% of samples. | Nearly 60% of samples had no detectable residues. |
| Multiple Pesticide Residues | Most samples contain multiple pesticides (often 4+). | Only 16% of samples had two or more residues. |
| Number of Pesticides Detected | A total of 203 pesticides were detected on the Dirty Dozen. | Very low overall numbers of pesticides detected. |
| Toxicity Consideration | New 2025 methodology includes higher toxicity weighting. | Low overall pesticide toxicity ranking. |
| Recommendation | Buy organic version when possible. | Safe to buy conventional or organic. |
| Example Items | Spinach, Strawberries, Grapes, Blackberries, Potatoes | Avocados, Sweet Corn, Pineapple, Onions, Papaya |
How to Reduce Pesticide Exposure and Keep Eating Berries
The most straightforward way to reduce your exposure to pesticide residues is to buy organic versions of produce on the Dirty Dozen list, such as blackberries. However, this is not always affordable or accessible for everyone. Here are some practical steps to minimize your risk:
Tips for Handling Conventional Produce
- Wash Thoroughly: While washing won't remove all residues, it can significantly reduce surface pesticide load. Use running water and a vegetable brush for firmer produce. For delicate items like blackberries, a colander and gentle rinsing under cool water is best.
- Choose Frozen Organic: If fresh organic blackberries are too expensive, check the frozen food aisle. Frozen organic berries are often more affordable and just as nutritious as their fresh counterparts, retaining about 95% of their nutrients.
- Diversify Your Diet: The EWG's main message is to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, regardless of how they are grown, because the health benefits far outweigh the risks associated with pesticide exposure at current levels. By including a wide variety of produce in your diet, you naturally diversify your nutrient intake and minimize potential exposure to any one chemical. Consider incorporating more items from the Clean Fifteen list.
Conclusion
Yes, conventional blackberries were added to the Environmental Working Group's Dirty Dozen list in 2025, primarily due to new USDA testing revealing high levels of pesticide residues. While this information may be concerning, it is not a reason to stop eating this nutrient-dense berry. The EWG and health experts continue to emphasize that the health benefits of eating plenty of fruits and vegetables are substantial. By purchasing organic blackberries when possible, choosing affordable frozen options, and thoroughly washing conventional produce, consumers can mitigate their pesticide exposure while still enjoying the powerful antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber that blackberries provide. Ultimately, an informed shopper can navigate their produce choices to support both their health and their budget.
