Dirty Dozen and Clean: What You Need to Know About Pesticides in Produce

Each year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases its Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™, ranking popular fruits and vegetables based on pesticide residue levels. Their two signature lists—the Dirty Dozen™ and the Clean Fifteen™—help shoppers make informed choices about when to buy organic and where conventional produce is a safer bet.

Health coach and wellness expert Elizabeth Rider echoes the importance of these guides, especially for families and individuals seeking to reduce toxic load and make smarter choices at the grocery store.

2024 Dirty Dozen™

These fruits and vegetables had the highest levels of pesticide residue—even after washing and peeling. If there’s one area to prioritize for organic purchases, this is it:

1. Strawberries
2. Spinach
3. Kale, Collard & Mustard Greens
4. Grapes
5. Peaches
6. Pears
7. Nectarines
8. Apples
9. Bell & Hot Peppers
10. Cherries
11. Blueberries
12. Green Beans

Noteworthy:

• Some leafy greens and green beans were found to contain pesticide residues banned in other countries.
• A single sample of leafy greens had up to 103 pesticide residues.

2024 Clean Fifteen™

These fruits and vegetables were found to have the lowest levels of pesticide residues. If you’re buying conventional produce, these are generally safer choices:

1. Avocados
2. Sweet Corn
3. Pineapple
4. Onions
5. Papaya
6. Frozen Sweet Peas
7. Asparagus
8. Honeydew Melon
9. Kiwi
10. Cabbage
11. Watermelon
12. Mushrooms
13. Mangoes
14. Sweet Potatoes
15. Carrots

Helpful Tip: According to Elizabeth Rider, if you’re shopping on a budget, focus on buying organic versions of the Dirty Dozen and feel more confident choosing conventional options from the Clean Fifteen.

Why This Matters

Pesticides are designed to kill pests—but research shows they can also harm human health, especially the developing brains and bodies of children. Chronic exposure may be linked to hormone disruption, fertility challenges, and other long-term issues. While levels found in produce are usually within legal limits, the cumulative effect of multiple pesticide types remains a concern.

Smart Shopping Tips

• Buy organic for the Dirty Dozen whenever possible.
• Wash all produce well, even items with peels or skins.
• Frozen produce can still contain pesticide residues—check labels and sources.
• Grow your own or support local organic farms if you can.