The 2024 annual report from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has identified spinach and strawberries as the most contaminated fruits and vegetables in their latest analysis.
Drawing from extensive data gathered by the USDA and FDA, encompassing over 46,000 samples of 46 popular crops, EWG has pinpointed which produce items carry the highest levels of pesticide contamination.
In their yearly rundown dubbed the “dirty dozen,” EWG unveils the fruits and vegetables most burdened with pesticides.
Topping the list, strawberries and spinach claim the lead position, with spinach securing second place. Following closely, kale, collard greens, and mustard greens collectively share the third spot.
Beyond these leafy greens, grapes, peaches, pears, nectarines, apples, bell peppers, hot peppers, cherries, blueberries, and green beans emerge as the subsequent most contaminated crops.
According to EWG’s Senior Scientist, Alexa Friedman, Ph.D., during a press release, it’s crucial for both adults and children to increase their intake of fruits and vegetables, whether conventionally grown or organic.
In addition to identifying the most contaminated produce, EWG also highlights crops with the lowest pesticide residue levels, presenting its “Clean Fifteen” list.
Avocados rank first for having the least amount of pesticide contamination, then sweet corn, pineapple, onions, papaya, frozen sweet peas, eggplant, asparagus, honeydew melon, kiwi, cabbage, watermelon, mushrooms, mangoes, sweet potatoes, and carrots.
