Understanding the 'Dirty Dozen' and 'Clean Fifteen'
Every year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases its highly-anticipated Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce, featuring the 'Dirty Dozen' and 'Clean Fifteen' lists. These guides are compiled using data from tests conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to rank popular fresh produce based on pesticide residue loads. The lists are designed to help consumers prioritize which items to purchase organic to reduce their exposure to pesticides. While the exact ranking can shift slightly from year to year, certain items consistently feature among the highest in pesticide residues due to their growth methods or physical properties, such as thin or porous skins.
The 2025 Dirty Dozen: Foods with the Most Pesticide Residues
The 2025 'Dirty Dozen' list names the twelve conventionally grown fruits and vegetables found to have the highest levels of pesticide residues. Samples of produce on this list show a high prevalence of detected pesticides, sometimes including multiple types on a single item. The list for 2025 included:
- Spinach: Topped the list for pesticide residue by weight.
- Strawberries: Consistently high on the list over the years.
- Kale, Collards, and Mustard Greens: Frequently contaminated with multiple types of pesticides.
- Grapes: Thin-skinned and often sprayed multiple times.
- Peaches: Contain a high percentage of multiple pesticide residues.
- Cherries: One of the most contaminated fruits.
- Nectarines: High percentage of samples test positive for residues.
- Pears: Often contain multiple pesticide residues.
- Apples: A commonly consumed fruit with high residue levels.
- Blackberries: A recent addition to the list.
- Blueberries: Conventionally grown blueberries tend to have high pesticide levels.
- Potatoes: Can absorb systemic pesticides from the soil.
The 'Clean Fifteen': Produce with the Lowest Residues
In contrast, the 'Clean Fifteen' list highlights the produce with the lowest levels of pesticide residues. For these items, purchasing conventionally grown produce is considered a lower risk option. The 2025 'Clean Fifteen' includes:
- Pineapple
- Sweet Corn
- Avocados
- Papaya
- Onions
- Frozen Sweet Peas
- Asparagus
- Cabbage
- Watermelon
- Cauliflower
- Bananas
- Mangoes
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Kiwi
Impact of Pesticides on Human Health
Exposure to pesticides, even in small doses, can accumulate over time and has been linked to various health concerns, although the most significant risk is for agricultural workers with direct, high-level exposure. Chronic health effects can include increased risks for neurological disorders like Parkinson's disease, certain cancers, and endocrine system disruption. Vulnerable populations, including children and pregnant women, are at a higher risk from pesticide exposure due to their developing bodies. While regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) set Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) for pesticides, the cumulative and combined effects of multiple chemicals are not yet fully understood and remain a concern for public health advocates.
Comparison: Dirty Dozen vs. Clean Fifteen
| Feature | Dirty Dozen | Clean Fifteen |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticide Residue Level | Highest levels detected | Lowest levels detected |
| Common Examples (2025) | Spinach, Strawberries, Kale, Grapes | Pineapple, Sweet Corn, Avocados, Papaya |
| Growth Factors | Often have thin, porous skin or grown directly in soil treated with pesticides | Typically have a protective outer layer that is discarded before consumption |
| Primary Recommendation | Prioritize buying organic versions to minimize risk | Buying conventional is generally considered safe and less of a concern |
| Effectiveness of Washing | Washing can help, but may not remove systemic pesticides absorbed by the plant | Washing is effective at removing surface dirt and residues |
Strategies to Reduce Your Pesticide Exposure
While the prospect of pesticide residues can be concerning, it is important to remember that eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables—whether organic or conventional—is vital for good health. For those concerned about pesticide exposure, there are actionable steps that can be taken:
- Consult the 'Dirty Dozen' and 'Clean Fifteen': Use the EWG's lists to guide your grocery purchases. If budget is a concern, prioritize buying organic versions of the 'Dirty Dozen' items.
- Wash all produce thoroughly: The FDA and EPA recommend washing and scrubbing all produce under running water to remove surface dirt and chemical residues. Some studies suggest that a short soak in a baking soda solution may be more effective at removing certain pesticides than tap water alone, though rinsing with plain water is always recommended.
- Trim and peel: For fruits and vegetables with removable skins, such as carrots, potatoes, or apples, peeling can reduce residue levels. For leafy greens like lettuce, discard the outer leaves.
- Consider growing your own: Starting a home garden allows you to control the methods used to grow your food, ensuring no unwanted pesticides are applied.
- Support local farmers: Shopping at local farmers' markets and speaking with growers directly about their pest control practices can provide insight into their methods.
- Cook your food: Cooking processes involving heat, like baking or boiling, can help break down some pesticide residues.
Conclusion
When considering which food has the highest pesticide content, awareness of the 'Dirty Dozen' is a powerful tool for informed grocery shopping. While conventionally grown spinach, strawberries, and other produce on this list tend to carry more residues, a balanced diet including plenty of fruits and vegetables remains crucial for overall health. By combining smart shopping with effective washing and preparation techniques, consumers can significantly reduce their exposure to pesticides. Whether you choose to prioritize organic versions of the 'Dirty Dozen' or simply improve your cleaning methods, the goal is to enjoy the nutritional benefits of a diverse diet with greater peace of mind.
For more information on pesticide residues and safe food practices, the World Health Organization (WHO) provides valuable resources: WHO - Pesticide Residues in Food.
