The 2025 Dirty Dozen: What You Need to Know
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) publishes the "Dirty Dozen" and "Clean Fifteen" lists every year. These lists help consumers decide when buying organic produce is most important to reduce pesticide exposure. The 2025 report introduces a new evaluation system that accounts for the overall toxicity of the pesticides found, as well as their quantity.
Why Kale Is on the Dirty Dozen List
Kale, collard greens, and mustard greens are ranked third on the 2025 Dirty Dozen list. Here are some key findings from USDA testing:
- High Number of Pesticides: Leafy greens, including kale, had the highest number of different pesticides, with 103 types.
- Toxicity Levels: The 2025 methodology highlights leafy greens as having some of the highest overall pesticide toxicity scores.
- Systemic Pesticides: Some pesticides are absorbed by the plant and can't be washed off. These chemicals, can become part of the vegetable itself.
- Frequent Residue: Many conventional kale samples tested positive for multiple pesticide residues. Some samples had over a dozen different pesticide residues.
Organic vs. Conventional Kale: A Comparison
Choosing between organic and conventional kale is an important consideration. Here's a comparison:
| Feature | Organic Kale | Conventional Kale |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticide Residue | Low to non-existent. | High levels of pesticides. |
| Nutritional Content | May have higher levels of nutrients. | Still nutritious, but possibly lower levels of certain nutrients compared to organic. |
| Cost | More expensive. | More affordable. |
| Health Concerns | Reduced risk of synthetic pesticide exposure. | Potential for cumulative exposure to various pesticides. |
| Availability | Less common. | Widely available. |
How to Reduce Pesticide Exposure When Eating Kale
Even with its place on the Dirty Dozen list, kale is nutritious. Here's how to reduce risk:
- Buy Organic: Choose organic kale when possible.
- Wash Thoroughly: Washing can reduce surface residue. Use a brush and cold water. Some people prefer vinegar or baking soda rinses.
- Vary Your Diet: Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables to avoid overexposure to any single pesticide.
- Consider the Clean Fifteen: Focus on the "Clean Fifteen" if you have a budget.
- Grow Your Own: Growing your own kale ensures a pesticide-free crop.
Conclusion: Is Kale in the Dirty Dozen?
Yes, kale is on the 2025 Dirty Dozen list. This ranking is due to high pesticide residue. Choose organic kale, wash it thoroughly, and balance your diet with Clean Fifteen produce. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is vital for good health.
For more details on the EWG's methodology and rankings, visit EWG.org.
