Is papaya on the dirty dozen?

January 2, 2026 •

3 min read

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) consistently lists papaya on its 'Clean Fifteen' guide, a ranking of produce with the least pesticide residue. The question, 'Is papaya on the dirty dozen?' can therefore be answered with a firm no, offering reassurance to consumers seeking low-pesticide fruit options.

Quick Summary

Papaya is featured on the EWG's Clean Fifteen list, indicating it has very low pesticide residues, unlike the items on the Dirty Dozen list.

Key Points

Clean Fifteen Ranking: Papaya is consistently listed on the Environmental Working Group's (EWG) 'Clean Fifteen' list, not the Dirty Dozen, indicating very low pesticide residues.
Protective Skin: The fruit's thick, inedible skin acts as a natural barrier, protecting the edible flesh from pesticide absorption.
Conventional vs. Organic: Conventional papaya is a low-pesticide option, but many Hawaiian varieties are genetically modified (GM); organic papaya is a non-GMO choice.
Informed Choice: The decision to buy conventional or organic papaya depends on personal factors like preference for non-GMOs and budget, as both are considered safe and nutritious.
Health Benefits vs. Risk: The health benefits of eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, including conventional papaya, far outweigh the minimal risks associated with its low pesticide residue.

Demystifying the Dirty Dozen and the Clean Fifteen

To understand why papaya isn't on the Dirty Dozen, it's helpful to first understand what these lists from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) represent. The EWG is a non-profit organization that analyzes data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to rank fruits and vegetables based on their pesticide contamination. The Dirty Dozen is the list of 12 conventionally grown produce items with the highest pesticide residues, while the Clean Fifteen is the list of 15 with the lowest. The EWG’s 2025 Shopper's Guide notably incorporated pesticide toxicity into its ranking methodology for the first time, providing a more comprehensive view of potential health hazards.

The 2025 EWG lists

For context, here are the lists for 2025, which confirm papaya's status:

Dirty Dozen (Highest in Pesticides):

Strawberries
Spinach
Kale, collard and mustard greens
Grapes
Peaches
Cherries
Nectarines
Pears
Apples
Blackberries
Blueberries
Potatoes

Clean Fifteen (Lowest in Pesticides):

Pineapples
Sweet Corn
Avocados
Papaya
Onions
Sweet Peas (frozen)
Asparagus
Cabbage
Watermelon
Cauliflower
Bananas
Mangoes
Carrots
Mushrooms
Kiwi

Why Papaya Is a Clean Choice

Papaya consistently secures a spot on the Clean Fifteen list due to its exceptionally low pesticide load. Several factors contribute to this ranking, with the fruit's natural structure being a primary reason. The thick, inedible skin of a papaya acts as a protective barrier, effectively shielding the inner flesh from most pesticide residues. The USDA's testing protocols reflect this, as the fruit is peeled before residue analysis, mimicking consumer behavior. A 2018 Healthline review noted that approximately 80% of tested papayas showed no detectable pesticide residues, further reinforcing its status as a clean fruit.

The GMO Factor: A Consideration for Papaya

While conventional papaya is low in pesticides, there is an additional factor for consumers to consider: genetic modification (GM). The majority of Hawaiian papayas are genetically engineered to be resistant to the ringspot virus, a crop-devastating disease. If avoiding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is a priority for you, opting for organic papaya is the most straightforward solution, as organic certification prohibits the use of GMOs. It's worth noting, however, that GM status does not impact the low pesticide residue of the conventional fruit. Studies on organic papayas have also shown potential benefits, with some research indicating improved sensorial qualities like higher juiciness and better aroma compared to conventionally grown varieties.

Comparison: Conventional Papaya vs. Organic Papaya


Feature	Conventional Papaya	Organic Papaya
Pesticide Residue	Very low, ranked on Clean Fifteen.	None detected, as synthetic pesticides are prohibited.
GMO Status	May be genetically modified, especially Hawaiian varieties.	Non-GMO, as prohibited by organic standards.
Cost	Typically less expensive and more widely available.	Generally more expensive and may be harder to find.
Flavor/Texture	Consistent, but some research suggests organic may be superior.	May possess enhanced sensorial qualities like juiciness and aroma.
Environmental Impact	Pesticide use can harm the environment, even if residue on fruit is low.	Focuses on sustainable farming and environmental balance.

Navigating Your Choices Safely

For those who prioritize minimizing pesticide exposure, the Clean Fifteen offers a helpful guideline for choosing conventional produce with very low risk. Papaya, with its thick protective skin, is an excellent example of this. However, it's crucial to distinguish between pesticide residue and the GMO issue, which are separate concerns. Regardless of whether you choose conventional or organic, proper washing remains a vital step. A simple rinse under running water for 15-20 seconds can help reduce any surface dirt and bacteria.

The most important takeaway, according to the EWG, is to eat more fruits and vegetables, regardless of whether they are organic or conventional. The health benefits of consuming a produce-rich diet far outweigh the minimal risk associated with conventional Clean Fifteen items. Ultimately, the decision between conventional and organic papaya depends on your personal preferences regarding GMOs, cost, and a desire to support specific farming practices.

Conclusion

In summary, papaya is not on the Dirty Dozen list and is, in fact, a celebrated member of the Clean Fifteen, boasting low pesticide residues thanks to its natural, thick rind. While conventional papaya may sometimes be genetically modified, it is still a safe and nutritious choice. For those wishing to avoid GMOs, organic papaya offers an excellent, pesticide-free alternative, and some studies even suggest a superior sensory experience. The key is to make an informed decision that aligns with your health goals and budget, confidently enjoying this nutrient-rich tropical fruit.

For more information on the EWG's methodology and the full list, visit their official guide EWG's 2025 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, papaya is not on the Dirty Dozen list. It is consistently included on the Clean Fifteen list, which features produce with the lowest pesticide residues.

Papaya is considered a clean fruit primarily because of its thick outer skin, which serves as a natural barrier against pesticide absorption. This results in very low residue levels in the edible inner flesh, even in conventionally grown varieties.

The Dirty Dozen lists conventionally grown produce with the highest levels of pesticide residue, while the Clean Fifteen lists produce with the lowest levels. Both lists are published annually by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).

Buying organic papaya is the best choice if you wish to avoid genetically modified (GM) produce, as many conventionally grown papayas, particularly from Hawaii, are GM. However, even conventional papaya has very low pesticide risk.

Yes, many papayas sold in the United States, especially those from Hawaii, are genetically engineered to resist the ringspot virus. Organic papayas, by definition, are not genetically modified.

Yes, it is safe to eat conventional papaya. The EWG and other health organizations note that the health benefits of eating fruits and vegetables far outweigh the minimal risk from low pesticide levels in Clean Fifteen produce.

Before peeling, simply rinse the papaya thoroughly under cool running water for about 15-20 seconds to remove any surface dirt or potential bacteria. Since the skin is not eaten, this is sufficient to prepare the fruit for consumption.