The dirty dozen

As the turn of the season brings a new crop of produce to the market, it’s a good time to research the types of fruits and vegetables in need of the most washing due to pesticide residue. According to the Environmental Working Group, close to 70 percent of the produce sold in the U.S. carry pesticides. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t eat your veggies. There is a “clean fifteen” list for produce with negligible to no pesticides, such avocados, corn, pineapple and onions. To stay on the safe side, the EWG suggests soaking and washing all of your produce thoroughly and splurging for organic, when possible. And, remember, you always can grow your own! Here is the 2019 list of dirtiest produce:

1. Strawberries

2. Spinach

3. Kale

4. Nectarines

5. Apples

6. Grapes

7. Peaches

8. Cherries

9. Pears

10. Tomatoes

11. Celery

12. Potatoes