Do Blackberries Need to Be Organic for Optimal Health?

According to the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) 2025 analysis of USDA data, 93% of conventional blackberry samples contained at least one detectable pesticide, with some samples containing up to 14 different residues. This raises a critical question for consumers: do blackberries need to be organic to avoid chemical exposure?

Quick Summary

The debate over organic versus conventional blackberries centers on pesticide exposure versus cost. Conventional options can harbor multiple residues, while organic production minimizes this, albeit at a higher price. Ultimately, consuming berries, regardless of how they are grown, offers significant health benefits.

Key Points

• Pesticide Residue Concerns: Conventional blackberries made the EWG's 'Dirty Dozen' list due to high pesticide residues, including potential carcinogens like cypermethrin.

• Not a Nutritional Difference: Organic and conventional blackberries offer similar nutritional profiles, including high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber.

• Washing is Not a Full Solution: While washing helps remove surface contaminants, it is not always effective for removing systemic pesticides from porous berries.

• Conventional Berries Are Still Healthy: Many toxicologists and growers argue that legal residue levels pose minimal risk and that avoiding produce due to cost is the greater health concern.

• Cost and Accessibility: Conventional blackberries are more affordable and accessible, whereas organic options carry a significant price premium, making them a budgetary consideration.

• Consider Frozen Organic: For a budget-friendly way to reduce pesticide exposure, opt for frozen organic blackberries, which retain their high nutritional value.

The Case Against Conventional: Blackberries on the 'Dirty Dozen'

In 2025, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) added blackberries to its annual 'Dirty Dozen' list, identifying produce with the highest pesticide residues. This was based on new USDA testing from 2023, which found a high prevalence of chemicals on conventional (non-organic) berries. The EWG's analysis revealed that 93% of blackberry samples contained pesticide residues, with an average of four different types per sample.

Concerning Pesticides Found on Conventional Blackberries

Several specific pesticides were detected on blackberries, raising red flags for health-conscious consumers. The most common was cypermethrin, a synthetic insecticide classified by the EPA as a possible human carcinogen. Other detected chemicals include:

• Malathion: An organophosphate insecticide linked to neurodevelopmental harm in early life. It is restricted in the European Union.
• Acetamiprid: A neonicotinoid insecticide known to be toxic to pollinators and linked to neurodevelopmental harm. Its acceptable daily intake levels were recently lowered by European authorities due to health concerns.

Limitations of Washing and Why It Matters

While thoroughly washing produce is always recommended, it may not remove all pesticide residues, especially those that have been absorbed by the fruit's porous skin. This is particularly relevant for berries, which have delicate, textured surfaces that can trap contaminants. For some systemic pesticides, washing is largely ineffective as the chemical is integrated into the plant's tissues.

The Counterargument: Are Conventional Berries Still Safe?

Opponents of the 'Dirty Dozen' list, including some conventional farmers and scientists, argue that the EWG's claims are overstated and that conventional produce is safe to eat. They point out that residue levels are typically far below the legal limits set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The key message from this perspective is that the health benefits of eating plenty of fruits and vegetables far outweigh the minuscule risks associated with pesticide exposure. Many toxicologists also suggest that EWG's reports create unnecessary alarm.

All Berries Offer Significant Nutritional Benefits

Regardless of how they are grown, blackberries are a nutritional powerhouse. They are rich in vitamins C and K, manganese, and fiber. They also contain potent antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which contribute to their deep color and offer anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and neuroprotective properties.

Comparison: Organic vs. Conventional Blackberries

Deciding between organic and conventional blackberries involves weighing several factors. Here is a comparison to help you make an informed choice.

Feature	Organic Blackberries	Conventional Blackberries
Pesticide Residue	Significantly lower, though not entirely free. Uses natural pesticides and IPM practices.	High probability of containing multiple residues. Placed on EWG's 'Dirty Dozen' list.
Cost	Consistently more expensive, sometimes over 100% higher than conventional versions.	Significantly less expensive and more accessible to many budgets.
Nutritional Value	No significant nutritional difference proven in studies.	No significant nutritional difference proven in studies.
Environmental Impact	Generally considered more environmentally friendly due to reduced use of synthetic chemicals.	Higher environmental impact from synthetic chemical use and runoff.
Accessibility	Limited availability in some areas, more widely available in larger stores.	Widely available year-round in most supermarkets.

How to Reduce Pesticide Exposure and Save Money

For those concerned about pesticide exposure but on a tight budget, there are strategies to minimize risk while enjoying the benefits of blackberries.

• Consider Frozen Organic: Frozen organic blackberries are often significantly cheaper than their fresh counterparts and offer the same nutritional profile. Freezing also preserves the antioxidants.
• Wash Thoroughly: While not a complete solution, washing fresh berries under running water while gently scrubbing can remove surface-level residues and bacteria. A baking soda soak is also an effective method for removing many pesticides.
• Prioritize Berries: Since berries are rarely peeled and have a porous surface, prioritizing organic versions of berries is a common strategy for reducing overall pesticide intake.
• Balance Your Choices: If you can't afford all organic produce, focus on buying organic for items on the Dirty Dozen list, and conventional for items on the 'Clean Fifteen' list, which have low residue levels.

Conclusion: Making the Best Decision for You

Ultimately, whether or not you need to buy organic blackberries depends on your personal health priorities, budget, and risk tolerance. For those seeking to minimize all potential pesticide exposure, organic is the clear choice. However, conventional blackberries remain a safe and healthy option, and eating a varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables is the most crucial health consideration of all. The definitive advice from health experts is to prioritize eating more produce, regardless of how it was grown. For more information on the Dirty Dozen, you can visit the EWG's resource page: EWG's Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce.

References

Environmental Working Group. (June 11, 2025). Blackberries: Dirty Dozen™ newcomer. EWG's 2025 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/blackberries.php The Hill. (June 11, 2025). 2 items added to 'Dirty Dozen' list of most pesticide-contaminated produce. Retrieved from https://thehill.com/policy/healthcare/5345504-items-added-to-dirty-dozen-list/ Wish Farms. (March 23, 2023). A Dose of Truth About the Dirty Dozen. Retrieved from https://wishfarms.com/a-dose-of-truth-about-the-dirty-dozen/ Food Network. (April 05, 2024). Just Eat the Non-Organic Strawberries. Retrieved from https://www.foodnetwork.com/healthyeats/healthy-tips/should-you-disregard-dirty-dozen Food & Wine. (April 16, 2025). How Much More Does Organic Produce Cost?. Retrieved from https://www.foodandwine.com/organic-fruits-vegetables-price-difference-11715998

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are blackberries on the 'Dirty Dozen' list?

Blackberries were added to the 'Dirty Dozen' list because a 2025 Environmental Working Group analysis of USDA data found high levels and multiple types of pesticide residues on most conventional samples tested.

Is it dangerous to eat non-organic blackberries?

Non-organic blackberries are considered safe by regulatory bodies like the EPA, with residue levels generally far below legal tolerance limits. However, they contain higher pesticide residues than organic berries, which concerns some consumers.

Does washing conventional blackberries remove all the pesticides?

No, washing does not remove all pesticides. While it is effective for removing surface-level residues and dirt, it cannot eliminate systemic pesticides absorbed into the fruit's porous structure.

Are organic blackberries more nutritious than conventional ones?

No, extensive research has not shown a significant nutritional difference between organic and conventional blackberries. Both are excellent sources of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.

Is there a health risk difference between organic and conventional berries for children?

Some health organizations suggest children may be more vulnerable to pesticide exposure due to their lower body weight. The EWG specifically notes that pesticides found on conventional blackberries can affect brain development in children.

What is the best way to clean conventional blackberries?

The most effective method is soaking the berries in a solution of one teaspoon of baking soda per two cups of water for about 15 minutes, then rinsing them thoroughly under running water.

What is a budget-friendly alternative to fresh organic blackberries?

Frozen organic blackberries are often less expensive than fresh organic ones and retain the same nutritional benefits. They are a great option for smoothies, sauces, and baking.