It is becoming apparent to a growing number of scientists that small amounts of pesticides and other chemicals can cause lasting damage to the health of humans, especially with regards to fetal development and early childhood. Evidence has been mounting regarding the long term detrimental effects of ingesting these powerful chemicals. Advisories are becoming stronger that we reduce, minimize, and try to limit altogether, our consumption of pesticides.

What is out there?

Research has found that people who eat the 12 most contaminated fruits and vegetables may consume an average of 10 pesticides per day. Those who eat the 15 least contaminated conventionally grown fruits and vegetables ingest fewer than 2 pesticieds per day. The list below can help you make informed choices to reduce your dietary pesticide consumption.

The Dirty Dozen (Buy Organic if you can.)

Worst at top of list.

  1. Peach
  2. Apple
  3. Bell pepper
  4. Celery
  5. Nectarine
  6. Strawberries
  7. Cherries
  8. Kale
  9. Lettuce
  10. Grapes (imported)
  11. Carrot
  12. Pear

The Clean 15 – Lowest in pesticides. :)

Best at top of list.

  1. Onion
  2. Avocado
  3. Sweet Corn
  4. Pineapple
  5. Mango
  6. Asparagus
  7. Sweet Peas
  8. Kiwi
  9. Cabbage
  10. Eggplant
  11. Papaya
  12. Watermelon
  13. Broccoli
  14. Tomato
  15. Sweet Patato

Can washing and peeling help?

The lists above were created with the assumption that people regularly rinse or peel their fresh produce. Rinsing can reduce the amount of pesticides but of course does not eliminate them. Peeling helps; however, extremely valuable nutrients are then eliminated with removal of the skin.

Best approach?

Try to eat a varied diet, rinse all produce conistently and effectively, and buy organic produce if at all possible. With a little effort it is possible to reduce the level of pesticide consumption for you and your family for long term health.

Source: www.foodnews.org