When it comes to eating healthier, most people tend to choose vegetables and fruits to fill their plates. However, studies have shown that there are certain types of produce that contain higher levels of pesticides than others.

Understanding which types of produce to buy organic or avoid altogether can help you make informed decisions about your diet and overall health.

What are Pesticides?

Pesticides are chemical substances used to control or eliminate pests that could potentially damage crops.

These substances are used to keep vegetables, fruits, and other crops free from insects, diseases, and other pests that can threaten their growth and development.

While pesticides can be effective in controlling pests, they are also harmful chemicals that can pose a serious health risk to both humans and the environment.

Pesticides can be toxic, and overexposure to them can lead to various health problems such as skin and eye irritation, respiratory issues, and even cancer.

Types of Pesticides

There are different types of pesticides that growers use to protect their crops from pests. Some of these include:.

• Insecticides: Used to control insects that can damage or destroy crops.
• Fungicides: Used to prevent or eliminate fungal growth that can damage crops.
• Herbicides: Used to control weeds that compete with crops for nutrients and light.

Each of these types of pesticides has its own unique set of risks and potential health hazards.

Produce with Highest Levels of Pesticides

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) conducts annual tests on various types of produce to determine which ones contain the highest levels of pesticides.

The EWG produces a list of the Dirty Dozen, which is a list of the 12 types of produce that have the highest levels of pesticides.

1. Strawberries

According to the EWG, strawberries contain the highest levels of pesticides. Up to 22 different pesticides have been found on strawberries, which is why they top the list as the most highly contaminated produce item.

2. Spinach

In second place is spinach, which is contaminated with up to 20 different pesticides. Spinach is a leafy green that is commonly consumed fresh or cooked.

As such, it is important to choose organic spinach whenever possible to avoid exposure to harmful pesticides.

Related Article Top 30 Fruits and Vegetables Most Likely to Contain Pesticides

3. Kale

Kale is a popular leafy green that is often eaten raw in salads or cooked in soups and stews. However, up to 18 different pesticides have been found on kale, which is why it is important to buy organic.

4. Nectarines

Nectarines are a type of stone fruit that is similar to peaches. However, unlike peaches, nectarines have smooth skin that is not fuzzy. Nectarines are often contaminated with up to 15 different pesticides.

5. Apples

Apples are a popular fruit that is eaten fresh or cooked in various dishes. However, up to 4 different pesticides have been found on apples, making them an important item to buy organic.

6. Grapes

Grapes are commonly consumed fresh or used to make wine. However, grapes are often contaminated with up to 15 different pesticides.

7. Peaches

Like nectarines, peaches are a type of stone fruit that is often eaten fresh. However, up to 14 different pesticides have been found on peaches, making them an important item to buy organic.

8. Cherries

Cherries are a popular fruit that is often eaten fresh or used to make jams and other desserts. However, up to 18 different pesticides have been found on cherries, making them an important item to buy organic.

9. Pears

Pears are a sweet and juicy fruit that is often eaten fresh or used to make jams and jellies. However, up to 5 different pesticides have been found on pears, making them an important item to buy organic.

10. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a staple in many diets and are used in various dishes such as salads and sauces. However, up to 13 different pesticides have been found on tomatoes, making them an important item to buy organic.

11. Celery

Celery is a crunchy vegetable often used in salads and soups. However, up to 13 different pesticides have been found on celery, making it an important item to buy organic.

12. Potatoes

Potatoes are a versatile vegetable that is often used in various dishes such as mashed potatoes and French fries. However, up to 35 different pesticides have been found on potatoes, making them an important item to buy organic.

Conclusion

While eating fruits and vegetables is an important part of a healthy diet, it is equally important to be aware of the potential risks associated with exposure to pesticides.

Choosing organic produce whenever possible, especially for items on the Dirty Dozen list, can help reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and promote better overall health and well-being.