The Clean Fifteen: Your Guide to Pesticide-Free Produce
This week, we will explore the Clean Fifteen list, which highlights produce with the lowest pesticide residues. Additionally, we will examine the health concerns related to the toxins sprayed on our food.
The Clean Fifteen Produce List
Here’s the Clean Fifteen list for 2023, featuring produce with minimal pesticide residues:
- Avocado
- Sweet corn
- Pineapple
- Onions
- Papaya
- Frozen sweet peas
- Asparagus
- Honeydew melon
- Kiwi
- Cabbage
- Mushrooms
- Mangoes
- Sweet potatoes
- Watermelon
- Carrots
Key Takeaways from the Clean Fifteen
Nearly 65% of the Clean Fifteen produce had no detectable pesticide residues. Avocados and sweet corn demonstrated the cleanest profiles, with less than 2% showing residues. Only a little over 10% of these fruits and vegetables contained two or more pesticides, and the first six items on the list had no samples positive for more than three pesticides. This starkly contrasts with the Dirty Dozen list, where contaminants are prevalent.
Contrasting the Dirty Dozen
In comparison, a single sample of kale from the Dirty Dozen list contained 18 different pesticides, with more than 92% showing at least two residues. Notably, approximately 60% of kale samples tested positive for DCPA (Dacthal), a human carcinogen banned on crops in Europe since 2009. Common advice suggests washing produce to remove pesticides, but keep in mind that studies analyzed produce that was both washed and peeled.
Health Concerns of Pesticides
A 2018 report linked high pesticide residues to infertility issues in both men and women. This concern is significant, especially since the USDA and California Department of Pesticide Regulation indicate that sperm counts in men across North America, Australia, Europe, and New Zealand have dropped by 50% in less than 40 years.
Spotlight on Strawberries
Strawberries are a popular choice for many, especially during the season. Their small size and pitted surfaces allow pesticides to accumulate, contributing to their reputation as a “dirty” fruit. Most strawberries are grown in California, where about 30 pounds of pesticides are applied per acre of strawberry fields. In contrast, corn only receives about five pounds per acre. Additionally, strawberry fields are treated with 9 million pounds of poisonous fumigation gases before planting, which eliminates pests and beneficial microbes in the soil.
The Importance of Organic Produce
The use of pesticides raises serious health concerns. Choosing organic produce helps avoid dozens of chemical pesticides associated with various health issues, including hormonal disruptions and weight loss challenges. Remarkably, certified organic products exclude over 3,000 high-risk toxins, including pesticides.
Take Action for Your Health
Keep a copy of the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists on your phone or in your car for easy access while grocery shopping. Take control of your health by educating yourself about what you eat, as achieving a healthy weight involves much more than food choices alone. Embrace informed shopping to support your well-being and weight loss journey!