What do you think of when you hear about the dirty dozen and nutrition?
Initially, you might think about all the fast-food chains that cause significant health problems. However, the dirty dozen is a list of what might seem to be healthy to eat foods, but due to Monsanto, they have all been affected by high amounts of pesticide residue. Pesticides are neuro-toxic chemicals that are specifically created to kill bacteria, fungi, plants(weeds), and insects and pose potential harm to humans. This list is the top pesticide-coated produce composed by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) in an effort to educate and protect the health of the general public.
The Dirty Dozen List for 2022
- 1. Strawberries
- 2. Spinach
- 3. Kale
- 4. Nectarines
- 5. Apples
- 6. Grapes
- 7. Peaches
- 8. Cherries
- 9. Pears
- 10. Tomatoes
- 11. Celery
- 12. Bell and Hot Peppers
The EWG gets their information by studying the results tested by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and measures rankings by how many pesticides were found on each item on the list. The EGW tests over 40,000 washed samples. Whenever possible, only eat these fruits and vegetables in season and only as an organically sourced food product.
The big question everyone may have here is, “Are these foods safe to eat?” Yes, you can eat off of the list. However, the list above tested positive for two or more pesticides, and the green leafy produce like kale tested positive for over 21 chemicals.
Washing the produce can help remove the topical pesticides, it is important to know how depending on the texture of the produce. The human body is not designed to process pesticides. Ever wonder what may be causing or contributing to gas and bloating, IBS, Leaky Gut Syndrome, and food allergies we did not have as kids? If you are pregnant, you are sharing this wonder neurotoxin delight with your baby.
Fruits and vegetables taste better when purchased as locally grown, organic, and pesticide-free. Get creative and try sampling the in-season fresh produce you can find at your farmer’s markets and organic grocery markets. Maybe even try a meal of all fruits and vegetables for a healthy change once a week or month or so. Your tummy will love you for it!
No worries, we have provided a clean and green list of 13 recommended produce items that are safer to eat in season.
- Avocados
- pineapple
- Onions
- Papaya
- Asparagus
- Honeydew Melon
- Kiwi
- Cabbage
- Mushrooms
- Cantalope
- Mangoes
- Watermelon
- Sweet Potatoes
Another way to get variety during the year is to check out the organic produce section in the frozen food Isle. Bonus tip, you can buy in bulk at affordable prices and the food will not spoil. For more information, check out Frequently Asked Questions About Produce and Pesticides
