As the demand for food continues to rise, farmers are resorting to the use of pesticides to protect their crops from pests and diseases. However, with this increased use comes the concern about the potential negative effects of pesticides on our health.

In 2022, several foods have been identified as the worst offenders when it comes to pesticide contamination. Knowing which foods to be cautious of can help you make informed choices about your diet and reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals. Read on to discover the 12 foods most contaminated by pesticides in 2022.

1. Strawberries

Strawberries have consistently made it to the top of the list when it comes to pesticide contamination. Unfortunately, their porous skin makes them more susceptible to absorbing pesticides during the growing process.

Washing strawberries thoroughly before consumption can reduce but not eliminate pesticide residues.

2. Spinach

Spinach, a nutritious leafy green vegetable, is also known for its high pesticide content. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that spinach samples in 2022 contained multiple pesticide residues, posing a potential risk to consumers.

Opting for organic spinach or thoroughly washing conventionally grown spinach is recommended.

3. Kale

Kale, another leafy green vegetable that has gained popularity for its health benefits, is unfortunately also highly contaminated by pesticides. This superfood may contain residues of up to 18 different pesticides.

Choosing organic kale or growing your own at home using organic methods can help reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.

4. Nectarines

Nectarines, a delicious and juicy summer fruit, are often heavily sprayed with pesticides to protect against pests and diseases.

According to the EWG, more than 90% of the nectarine samples tested in 2022 had residues of at least two different pesticides. Thoroughly washing and peeling nectarines or opting for organic varieties can help minimize pesticide exposure.

5. Apples

Apples are a staple fruit in many households, but they are also among the most pesticide-contaminated fruits. The EWG’s annual analysis found that apples had the highest pesticide residue levels out of the fruits tested.

Consider choosing organic apples or peeling them before consumption to reduce pesticide exposure.

6. Grapes

Grapes, whether consumed fresh or as raisins or wine, occupy a prominent place on the pesticide contamination list. The thin skin of grapes allows pesticides to penetrate easily.

Washing grapes thoroughly and opting for organic varieties can help reduce exposure to these harmful chemicals.

7. Cherries

Cherries, with their sweet and tart flavor, are a favorite summer fruit for many. However, they also make the list of highly contaminated foods due to the frequent use of pesticides in their cultivation.

Considering organic cherries or washing them thoroughly can help minimize exposure to pesticide residues.

8. Peaches

Peaches, with their soft and fuzzy skin, are often treated with multiple pesticides to ward off insects and diseases. Unfortunately, this means they are commonly found to have high levels of pesticide residues.

Choosing organic peaches or thoroughly washing and peeling conventionally grown ones can reduce pesticide exposure.

9. Pears

Similar to apples, pears are also commonly treated with pesticides to protect them from pests and diseases. The EWG found that conventionally grown pears had significant pesticide residues, with one sample containing residues of 11 different pesticides.

Opting for organic pears or peeling them can help reduce exposure to these chemicals.

10. Tomatoes

Tomatoes, a staple ingredient in many dishes, also make the list of most pesticide-contaminated foods. The EWG found residues of multiple pesticides in tomato samples, raising concerns about the potential health risks associated with their consumption.

Washing thoroughly and choosing organic tomatoes when possible is recommended.

11. Bell Peppers

Bell peppers, whether green, red, or yellow, are widely used in cooking due to their vibrant colors and versatility. However, they are also highly contaminated by pesticides.

The EWG’s analysis revealed the presence of multiple pesticide residues in bell pepper samples. Choosing organic bell peppers or thoroughly washing conventionally grown ones can help reduce exposure.

12. Potatoes

Potatoes, a staple crop in many diets, are often treated with pesticides to protect against pests and diseases. The EWG found that conventionally grown potatoes had some of the highest pesticide levels among all fruits and vegetables tested.

Consider choosing organic potatoes or peeling them to reduce pesticide exposure.