Does Peeling Nectarines Remove Pesticides? An In-Depth Look

January 4, 2026 •

3 min read

According to a 2017 study from the University of Massachusetts, a baking soda wash was more effective than tap water at removing surface pesticides from apples. This raises important questions about what works for other fruits with edible skins. So, does peeling nectarines remove pesticides, or is a thorough wash enough?

Quick Summary

Peeling a nectarine removes surface-level pesticide residues, but cannot eliminate systemic pesticides absorbed into the flesh. Proper washing, especially with a baking soda solution, is also effective for surface contaminants. Deciding whether to peel depends on balancing the removal of potential chemicals with preserving the skin's valuable nutrients and fiber.

Key Points

Peeling removes surface residues: Peeling a nectarine is very effective at removing pesticides that remain on the surface of the skin.
Systemic pesticides remain: Peeling does not remove systemic pesticides, which are absorbed by the plant and integrate into the fruit's flesh.
Peel contains nutrients: The skin of a nectarine is rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which are lost when peeled.
Baking soda soak is effective: Research shows that a 12-15 minute soak in a baking soda solution is more effective for removing surface pesticides than plain water alone.
Wash before peeling: Always wash the fruit before peeling to prevent transferring any surface contaminants to the edible flesh via your knife or hands.
Benefits outweigh risks: For most people, the health benefits of eating fresh produce, even conventionally grown, far outweigh the risks associated with properly washed pesticide residue.

The Dual Nature of Nectarine Pesticides

When considering pesticides on nectarines, it is crucial to understand that not all chemicals are the same. A nectarine's exposure involves two primary types of pesticide contamination: surface and systemic.

Surface vs. Systemic Pesticides

Surface Pesticides: These chemicals remain on the skin of the fruit and are the easiest to remove. They adhere to the waxy outer layer and can be significantly reduced with proper washing.
Systemic Pesticides: These are absorbed by the plant and circulate throughout its tissues. Because they are integrated into the fruit's flesh, they cannot be washed or peeled away. Regulations often ensure systemic pesticides degrade to safe levels by harvest time.

The Effectiveness of Peeling

Peeling a nectarine will remove most surface pesticide residues, but you lose valuable nutrients in the skin, such as fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

Balancing Risk and Nutrition

The choice to peel is a personal one. While the skin is nutritious, those concerned about chemical exposure may choose to peel, especially for conventionally grown nectarines which are often on 'Dirty Dozen' lists. However, produce is tested and residues are typically within safety limits.

Best Practices for Cleaning Nectarines

Thorough washing is essential to remove surface pesticides, dirt, and bacteria, whether you peel or not. Avoid commercial soaps or detergents, which can be absorbed.

Step-by-Step Washing Guide

Wash your hands: Start with clean hands.
Rinse under running water: Hold nectarines under cool, running water for at least 20 seconds.
Rub gently: Gently rub the skin with your fingertips.
Consider a baking soda soak: For better surface cleaning, soak in a solution of 1 tsp baking soda per 2 cups water for 12-15 minutes, then rinse. This is effective for removing certain surface pesticides.
Dry thoroughly: Pat dry with a clean paper towel to remove residue and bacteria.

Important Reminder: Wash Before Peeling!

Always wash thoroughly before peeling to prevent transferring contaminants from the skin to the flesh.

Conventional vs. Organic Nectarines

Conventional nectarines often have higher pesticide residues and are frequently on the 'Dirty Dozen' list. Organic nectarines use fewer synthetic pesticides, but still require washing to remove residues from natural pesticides or drift.

Comparison Table: Peeling vs. Washing Nectarines


Feature	Peeling Nectarines	Washing Nectarines (Baking Soda)
Effectiveness (Surface Pesticides)	Very high	High
Effectiveness (Systemic Pesticides)	Zero	Zero
Nutrient Retention	Low (Skin nutrients are lost)	Very high (Nutrients in the skin are retained)
Time & Effort	Higher (Slower prep)	Moderate (Soak and rinse)
Primary Goal	Minimize all surface chemical exposure	Minimize surface chemicals, maximize nutrition

Final Verdict: Peeling and Washing Strategy

In conclusion, peeling effectively removes surface pesticides but sacrifices nutrients and doesn't remove systemic ones. A thorough wash, particularly with a baking soda soak, is a good balance, significantly reducing surface residues while keeping the skin's nutritional value.

To ensure maximum safety and health benefits:

Prioritize washing: Always wash nectarines.
Enhance your wash: Use a baking soda soak for extra surface cleaning.
Consider peeling: Peel if you have specific concerns or prefer to.
Eat your produce: The health benefits of eating fruits outweigh the minimal risks from properly washed produce.

Visit the US EPA website for more information on sensible food practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Washing with plain tap water can remove some surface pesticides, as well as dirt and bacteria. For a more effective removal of surface chemicals, a baking soda soak is recommended.

Organic nectarines are grown without most synthetic pesticides. While they may have lower residue levels, they are not pesticide-free. It's important to wash both conventional and organic produce thoroughly.

The baking soda soak creates an alkaline environment that helps break down certain pesticide compounds on the fruit's surface, making them easier to wash away. This method has been proven more effective than plain water or vinegar for surface residues.

Regulatory bodies like the EPA and USDA set safety limits for pesticide residues. Systemic pesticides degrade over a pre-harvest interval to ensure levels are safe for consumption by the time they reach you. The overall risk from regulated produce is considered minimal.

No. While peeling removes surface residues, it does not address systemic pesticides that have been absorbed into the fruit's flesh. Additionally, you lose the nutritional benefits of the skin.

The 'Dirty Dozen' is a list published by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) that identifies fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residue. Nectarines are frequently on this list, indicating a higher likelihood of surface residue compared to other produce.

The FDA does not recommend using soaps, detergents, or commercial washes, as they have not been proven more effective than water or a baking soda solution. Some of these cleaners can also be absorbed by the fruit.