When it comes to eating fruits and vegetables, most people assume that they are the healthiest food options out there. However, many of us are unaware of the harmful chemicals and toxins that are used in the production of these foods.

In fact, some of the most commonly eaten fruits and veggies are actually poisoning us unknowingly.

The Dirty Dozen

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has identified a list of fruits and veggies that contain high levels of harmful pesticides and chemicals. These foods are known as “The Dirty Dozen” and include:.

Strawberries
Spinach
Kale
Nectarines
Apples
Grapes
Peaches
Cherries
Pears
Tomatoes
Celery
Potatoes

These fruits and veggies are particularly harmful because they are consistently found to contain high levels of pesticides and other chemicals.

In fact, the EWG found that nearly 70% of produce sold in the US contains pesticide residue, with some of the above foods showing the highest levels.

The Risks of Pesticides

Pesticides are commonly used in agriculture to protect crops from insects, weeds, and diseases. While they help to increase crop yields and reduce damage, pesticides are also toxic to humans and can lead to a range of health problems.

The risks associated with pesticides include:.

Cancer
Neurological disorders
Reproductive harm
Endocrine disruption
Birth defects
Allergies

In addition, children and babies are more susceptible to the negative effects of pesticides because they are still developing and have weaker immune systems.

Washing Produce Isn’t Enough

Many people assume that washing their fruits and veggies under running water is enough to remove harmful pesticides and chemicals. However, this is not the case.

While washing can remove some surface-level dirt and debris, it does not effectively remove pesticides that have been absorbed by the fruit or vegetable.

In fact, some studies have found that washing produce can actually spread and increase the amount of pesticide residue on the food.

Organic Options

The best way to avoid the harmful chemicals found in conventional produce is to choose organic options.

Organic fruits and veggies are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, making them a much safer choice for both the environment and our bodies.

While organic options can be more expensive, it’s important to prioritize our health and wellbeing by investing in higher quality produce.

Additionally, shopping at farmers markets or joining a CSA (community-supported agriculture) program can provide more affordable access to organic produce.

Conclusion

The foods we consume on a daily basis can have a significant impact on our health and wellbeing.

While fruits and veggies are commonly thought to be the healthiest food options, it’s important to be aware of the harmful chemicals and toxins that are used in their production.

Choosing organic options, particularly for “The Dirty Dozen” produce, is a simple and effective way to reduce our exposure to harmful pesticides and chemicals.

By prioritizing our health and wellbeing in the foods we consume, we can promote a healthier and happier lifestyle.