Do I need to buy green beans organic? A detailed guide

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), in their 2023 report, green beans were added to the "Dirty Dozen" list, indicating high pesticide contamination. This raises a critical question for many shoppers: Do I need to buy green beans organic?

Quick Summary

This guide provides a comprehensive look at the pesticide contamination levels in conventional green beans, the specific risks associated with certain chemicals, and the benefits of choosing organic. Learn how to make an informed decision for your health and budget.

Key Points

• High Pesticide Risk: Conventional green beans are on the EWG's Dirty Dozen list due to high pesticide residues, making organic a safer option.

• Banned Chemicals Detected: Tests have found illegal and highly toxic pesticides, including the neurotoxin acephate, on conventional green beans.

• Systemic Pesticides Aren't Washable: Thorough washing cannot remove all pesticides from conventional green beans, as many are absorbed systemically by the plant.

• Health Benefits Outweigh Risks: The health benefits of eating vegetables outweigh the risks from pesticides, so continue eating green beans, choosing organic when possible.

• Consider Cost and Alternatives: Organic green beans are more expensive, but frozen organic versions offer a more budget-friendly option. For those concerned, lower-risk snap peas are a similar alternative.

• Prioritize Organic for High-Risk Items: If you can't afford all organic produce, prioritize buying organic for items like green beans that consistently show high levels of contamination.

• Watch Origin for Higher Risk: Imported conventional green beans, especially from Mexico, have been found with higher levels of banned pesticides.

• Nutritional Differences Are Minor: The primary motivation for choosing organic green beans is pesticide avoidance rather than significant nutritional differences.

Understanding the pesticide risk in green beans

Green beans have been flagged as a concern due to high pesticide levels found in federal tests on conventional varieties. This has led to their inclusion on the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) "Dirty Dozen" list, highlighting produce with significant pesticide residues.

Specific pesticides of concern

• Acephate and Methamidophos: Acephate, a neurotoxic insecticide banned by the EPA for green beans since 2011, has been detected. Its toxic breakdown product, methamidophos, has also been found, sometimes at levels considered unsafe, especially in imported green beans.
• Carbendazim: This fungicide, a possible carcinogen and reproductive toxin banned in the EU but not the U.S., was found on many green bean samples.
• Bifenthrin: A pyrethroid insecticide and possible carcinogen, also banned in the EU, was present on a quarter of samples.
• Multiple Residues: Many conventional green beans contain residues from several pesticides, the combined effects of which are not fully understood.

The nutritional and cost factors

Comparing organic and conventional green beans involves considering nutrition and cost. While some studies suggest slight nutritional advantages in organic produce, the main difference lies in synthetic pesticide residues.

Cost is a significant factor. Organic green beans are typically more expensive than conventional ones. According to one study, organic produce can cost over 50% more, though this varies. Budget-conscious shoppers may prioritize organic purchases for items like green beans with high pesticide loads.

Comparison: Organic vs. Conventional Green Beans

Feature	Conventional Green Beans	Organic Green Beans
Pesticide Residues	High risk, regularly feature on the EWG's Dirty Dozen. High levels of synthetic pesticides often detected.	Significantly lower or undetectable pesticide levels. Synthetic pesticides are generally prohibited in organic farming.
Pesticide Types	May contain multiple residues, including banned neurotoxins like acephate and methamidophos, and possible carcinogens such as carbendazim.	Avoids synthetic, potentially toxic pesticides. Natural methods are used for pest control.
Cost	Typically less expensive, offering an affordable option for many households.	Usually more expensive, with price premiums that can exceed 50% compared to conventional.
Nutritional Content	Generally similar to organic in terms of macronutrients, though some studies show lower levels of certain vitamins and antioxidants.	Potentially higher levels of some vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, though results are inconsistent across studies.
Farming Practices	May utilize synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides that can impact soil health and local ecosystems.	Focuses on sustainable methods that promote soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation.

Practical steps for all shoppers

Eating vegetables is important for health, and the benefits generally outweigh the risks from pesticides. If organic isn't always possible, consider these steps:

• Wash Thoroughly: Washing helps reduce surface residues but doesn't remove systemic pesticides. Scrubbing or using a vinegar rinse can help.
• Consider Frozen: Frozen organic green beans can be a cost-effective alternative. Cooking methods like steaming may even enhance beneficial compounds.
• Buy Domestic Organic: Imported green beans, particularly from Mexico, have shown higher levels of banned pesticides like acephate. Choosing domestic organic can reduce this risk.

The definitive conclusion

Because green beans frequently appear on the EWG's Dirty Dozen list with high levels of concerning pesticides, including banned substances, choosing organic green beans is highly recommended when possible. For those on a budget, prioritizing organic purchases for high-risk items like green beans is a sensible approach. While washing conventional green beans helps with surface residues, it doesn't eliminate the risk from systemic pesticides absorbed by the plant. Opting for organic is a direct way to lower exposure to these chemicals, especially important for vulnerable populations. If organic options are unavailable or too costly, ensure thorough washing, consider domestic sources, or explore lower-risk alternatives like snap peas.

References

• Environmental Working Group (EWG), 2023 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce: Green Beans
• Consumer Reports, Produce Without Pesticides
• The Organic Center, Frozen organic green beans carry more shelf stable nutrients
• LendingTree, Analysis: Organic vs. Conventional Food Prices
• Healthline, The Dirty Dozen: 12 Foods That Are High in Pesticides
• Wiley Analytical Science, Clean beans: How washing and boiling affect pesticides on green beans
• USA Today, Why pesticides in produce study from Consumer Reports has experts concerned
• Kripalu, The Dirty Dozen and the Clean 15: What to Buy Organic
• Let's Organic, Top Reasons to Choose Organic Lentils and Beans for Your Diet
• NIH, Quality and Nutritional Parameters of Food in Agri-Food Production Systems
• Verywell Fit, Green Beans Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
• EWG, FAQ on the Shopper's Guide
• Consumer Reports, 6 Fruits and Vegetables Loaded With Pesticides

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are green beans on the Dirty Dozen list?

Green beans are on the Dirty Dozen list because tests have repeatedly shown they contain high levels of pesticide residues, including some that are banned for use on this crop. In 2023, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) reported that over 70% of green bean samples had at least two pesticides detected.

Can I just wash conventional green beans to remove the pesticides?

Washing can help reduce some surface pesticide residues but will not remove systemic pesticides. Systemic pesticides are absorbed into the plant's tissue during growth and cannot be washed off with water. For green beans, this is a significant concern due to the toxic chemicals found.

Are frozen organic green beans a good option?

Yes, frozen organic green beans are an excellent and often more affordable alternative to fresh organic. They are frozen at peak freshness and maintain a high nutritional quality. In some studies, cooking methods like steaming can even increase the level of beneficial antioxidants.

What are the health risks of pesticides found on conventional green beans?

Some pesticides found on conventional green beans are linked to serious health risks. These include organophosphates like acephate and methamidophos, which can harm the nervous system, and possible carcinogens like carbendazim and bifenthrin. The effects are particularly concerning for children and during pregnancy.

Is there a nutritional difference between organic and conventional green beans?

While some studies have found that organic produce can have higher levels of certain antioxidants and minerals, the overall evidence regarding nutritional superiority is inconsistent. For most consumers, the primary reason to choose organic green beans is to reduce exposure to pesticide chemicals.

How can I reduce pesticide exposure if I can't always buy organic?

If buying organic is not possible, always wash your conventional green beans thoroughly. Consider scrubbing them with a produce brush or using a vinegar rinse. You can also prioritize organic purchases for items like green beans that are high on the Dirty Dozen list, and buy conventional for items on the "Clean Fifteen" list.

Are imported green beans riskier than domestic ones?

A Consumer Reports analysis found that imported green beans, particularly from Mexico, were more likely to contain high levels of dangerous, and even banned, pesticides like acephate. Choosing domestic organic green beans can help mitigate this specific risk.

What is the EWG Dirty Dozen?

The EWG Dirty Dozen is an annual list compiled by the Environmental Working Group that ranks conventionally grown fruits and vegetables based on the highest levels of pesticide residue. It helps consumers decide which produce to prioritize buying organic.