What is the Dirty Dozen?
Each year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a non-profit health advocacy organization, publishes its "Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce". This guide features two primary lists: the Dirty Dozen and the Clean Fifteen. The Dirty Dozen identifies the 12 types of conventionally grown fruits and vegetables that contain the most pesticide residues, while the Clean Fifteen lists those with the least. The purpose of these lists is not to scare consumers away from eating produce, but to provide a tool for those who want to reduce their pesticide intake. EWG's rankings are based on an analysis of government food safety data from agencies like the USDA.
The 2025 Dirty Dozen list
Based on recent reports, the following fruits and vegetables are typically included in the Dirty Dozen, representing produce that is frequently contaminated with multiple types of pesticides:
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Kale, collard, and mustard greens
- Grapes
- Peaches
- Cherries
- Nectarines
- Pears
- Apples
- Blackberries
- Blueberries
- Potatoes
The 2025 Clean Fifteen list
Conversely, the Clean Fifteen list includes produce with very low or no detectable pesticide residues. This list represents a budget-friendly option for consumers who want to reduce pesticide exposure without buying all organic items. Examples often include items with thick, inedible peels, which naturally protect the edible portion. The most recent list features produce such as:
- Pineapple
- Sweet corn (fresh and frozen)
- Avocados
- Papaya
- Onions
- Sweet peas (frozen)
- Asparagus
- Cabbage
- Watermelon
- Cauliflower
- Bananas
- Mangoes
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Kiwi
How are the lists created?
EWG's methodology involves analyzing data from pesticide residue tests performed by the USDA. These tests look for traces of pesticides on produce after it has been prepared for consumption, meaning it has been washed. The ranking system considers six factors, including the percentage of samples with detectable pesticides, the percentage of samples with multiple pesticides, and the average number of pesticides found on a single sample. This comprehensive analysis allows EWG to identify the produce most likely to carry a significant pesticide load.
What you need to know about organic vs. conventional
When it comes to produce, consumers often weigh the pros and cons of organic versus conventional. The Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists can be helpful, but it's essential to understand the broader context.
| Feature | Conventional Produce | Organic Produce | ||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pesticide Residue | Higher levels and wider variety, with some items testing positive for dozens of different pesticides. | Significantly lower levels, as most synthetic pesticides are not used in organic farming. | Cost | Generally more affordable, making it accessible for budget-conscious shoppers. | Typically more expensive due to more labor-intensive farming practices and lower crop yields. | Nutrition | Some studies show minimal nutritional differences, while others find organic may have higher levels of some nutrients and antioxidants. | Often perceived as more nutritious, but research is mixed. It may have higher vitamin C, iron, and phosphorus, but some conventional produce can have more non-essential amino acids. | Health | Governed by EPA regulations ensuring residue levels are below what is considered harmful, but chronic, low-level exposure is a concern for some. | Associated with lower pesticide exposure, which is particularly beneficial for children and those with compromised health. | Environmental Impact | Heavy reliance on synthetic pesticides can contribute to environmental issues, including damage to soil health and biodiversity. | Farming methods are generally more sustainable and gentler on the environment, fostering greater biodiversity. |
Practical steps to reduce pesticide exposure
For consumers concerned about pesticide residue, there are several simple actions that can be taken:
- Wash thoroughly: Scrubbing produce, even with thick peels, under cool running water can remove some surface pesticides and bacteria. Rinsing with plain water is often sufficient.
- Consider a baking soda soak: Some studies have shown that a baking soda solution is more effective at removing certain pesticide residues than tap water alone. A ratio of 1 teaspoon of baking soda to 2 cups of water is often recommended.
- Peel it: Peeling fruits and vegetables with a thick skin, such as bananas, avocados, and oranges, can remove most of the surface residue.
- Buy organic for the Dirty Dozen: If budget allows, prioritize buying organic versions of the items on the Dirty Dozen list to significantly reduce your pesticide intake from those specific crops.
- Don't abandon conventional: The most important thing is to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, regardless of how they were grown. For produce on the Clean Fifteen, buying conventional is a cost-effective way to get essential nutrients.
Conclusion: Making informed decisions for a healthier diet
The existence of the dirty produce list, or the Dirty Dozen, is a valuable reminder that pesticide residues are a consideration for many consumers, particularly those with concerns about long-term health effects. However, it's not a reason to avoid eating fresh produce entirely. The consensus among health experts is that the nutritional benefits of eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables far outweigh the risks associated with conventional produce. By using the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists as a guide, coupled with proper washing techniques, consumers can make informed and budget-friendly choices to reduce their pesticide exposure without compromising on a healthy, nutrient-rich diet.
For more information on the lists and the science behind them, consult the official Environmental Working Group website.
