Cherries and the Environmental Working Group's Dirty Dozen
For many years, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has published its 'Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce', which includes the now-famous 'Dirty Dozen' list. This list identifies the twelve conventionally grown fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residue. Cherries have been a consistent feature on this list, indicating that they are among the produce items most likely to contain measurable pesticide residues, even after washing.
For instance, the 2025 EWG report placed cherries at number six on the Dirty Dozen list, citing findings that over 90% of samples of certain Dirty Dozen produce items—including cherries—tested positive for residues of two or more pesticides. This ranking is based on USDA testing data, which analyses samples of produce after they have been washed or peeled in a standard way. While the presence of pesticides doesn't automatically mean the fruit is unsafe to eat, the EWG uses this information to help consumers who wish to limit their pesticide exposure make more informed purchasing decisions.
Why are cherries so prone to pesticide residues?
Several factors contribute to cherries' high pesticide load:
- Vulnerability to Pests: Cherry crops are susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, such as the European cherry fruit fly, which necessitates frequent pesticide applications throughout the growing season.
- Thin Skin: Unlike fruits with thick, protective peels like bananas or avocados, the thin skin of cherries offers less protection against pesticides, which can penetrate the surface.
- Post-Harvest Treatments: Some reports indicate that certain protective chemicals and rain protectants can prolong the presence of pesticide residues on the fruit's surface.
Conventional vs. Organic Cherries: A Comparison
When faced with the choice, many consumers turn to organic produce to minimize pesticide intake. While organic produce is not entirely free of pesticides, the types and amounts of chemicals are much more regulated.
Conventional Cherries
- Grown with synthetic pesticides, which are effective at protecting crops but may leave higher residues.
- More than 90% of samples often test positive for two or more pesticides.
- Some detected pesticides are restricted or banned in other regions, raising health questions.
Organic Cherries
- Grown using organic farming methods that prohibit most synthetic pesticides.
- May still contain some natural or approved organic pesticides, or trace amounts from environmental drift.
- Tests show a significantly lower incidence of pesticide residues compared to conventional cherries.
| Feature | Conventional Cherries | Organic Cherries |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticide Use | Uses a wide range of synthetic pesticides. | Prohibits most synthetic pesticides, uses approved organic alternatives. |
| Residue Levels | Frequently contain measurable, higher levels of multiple pesticide residues. | Much lower levels of pesticide residues, with many samples testing clean. |
| Cost | Typically more affordable and widely available. | Generally more expensive due to higher farming costs and lower yields. |
| EWG Rating | Consistently listed on the 'Dirty Dozen'. | Consistently on the 'Clean Fifteen' for other produce types, and the organic label offers assurance of lower pesticide exposure for cherries. |
Effective Methods for Washing Cherries
Regardless of whether you buy conventional or organic cherries, proper washing is an important step to reduce surface-level pesticides, dirt, and bacteria. The FDA and USDA do not recommend using soap or detergents, as these can leave residues.
Here is a simple, effective method for washing cherries:
- Water Rinse: Place the cherries in a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cool, running water for 30-60 seconds. Use your hands to gently agitate and rub the fruit.
- Baking Soda Soak (Highly Recommended): For a more thorough cleaning, a baking soda soak is highly effective. Mix one teaspoon of baking soda per two cups of water in a large bowl. Add the cherries and let them soak for 15 minutes.
- Final Rinse: After the soak, rinse the cherries again with clean, cool running water to remove the baking soda solution.
- Pat Dry: Pat the cherries dry with a paper towel or clean cloth before storing or eating.
It is best to wash cherries just before eating them. Washing and storing wet cherries can cause them to spoil more quickly. Keeping the stems on until just before consumption also helps prolong their freshness.
Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice
The question of whether cherries have high levels of pesticides has a nuanced answer: conventional cherries do, according to reliable sources like the EWG, making organic cherries a viable alternative for those looking to minimize their exposure. However, it's crucial to remember that eating fruits and vegetables is vital for good health, and a conventional cherry is far better than no cherry at all. By understanding the difference between conventional and organic options and implementing proper washing techniques—particularly the effective baking soda soak—consumers can enjoy their fruit with greater confidence. Ultimately, the best choice is the one that aligns with your health goals and personal preferences, backed by knowledge of food safety practices.
