Produce Investigation

 

The produce section is one of the best parts of the grocery store, it's like nature's pharmacy. However modern day production of produce uses pesticides, which are used to deter disease carrying pests from infecting and harming the produce. Studies have shown that pesticides are linked to negative health effects, such as an increased cancer risk and brain disorders. It's best to limit your exposure to these agents whenever possible; this can be done by buying organic produce because of their more limited pesticide use. The Environmental Working Group releases lists known as the “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen” to make consumers aware of what foods have the highest amount of pesticides and the cleanest foods available to us. This group gets their data from the United States Department of Agriculture Pesticide Data Program, and it is updated each year. Listed below are 2021’s “Dirty Dozen” and Clean Fifteen". 

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Dirty Dozen:

  1. Strawberries

  2. Spinach

  3. Kale, collard and mustard greens

  4. Nectarines

  5. Apples

  6. Grapes

  7. Cherries

  8. Peaches

  9. Pears

  10. Bell and hot peppers

  11. Tomatoes

  12. Celery

 

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Clean Fifteen:

  1. Avocado

  2. Sweet Corn

  3. Pineapple

  4. Onion

  5. Papaya

  6. Frozen Sweet Peas

  7. Eggplant

  8. Asparagus

  9. Broccoli

  10. Cabbage

  11. Kiwi

  12. Cauliflower

  13. Mushrooms

  14. Honeydew Melon

  15. Cantaloupe

 
RecipesLauren Roligenergy, nutrition, protein, healthy snacks, snacks, fruits, vegetables, produce, groceryComment