Environmental Working Group's Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce is an incredible resource for people who want to buy organic produce but can't afford to all the time. They analyzed pesticide residues on 47 fruits and veggies and then ranked them from the most contaminated to the least, making it easier for you to make choices when you're in a pinch.
This 5th edition is based on data through 2007 and the list has changed! New on the Dirty Dozen side (the 12 items you should most often buy organic) are Kale, Lettuce and Carrots. New on the Clean 15 side (you're safe buying conventional on these) are Cabbage, Eggplant, Watermelon, Tomato and Sweet Potato.
If you want to see the full list,it's available here. Most people just download the wallet guide so they've always got it with them.
Thank you EWG!!
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Hi Micaela,
Thanks for the tip! I think that card will be especially helpful when traveling in areas without co-op's or grocery stores that have organic foods available. Rhys and I have definitely been in that situation, esp. when we are camping. Having that handy card in our wallet will help us make good choices about the produce that we choose to purchase!
Thanks,
your sis. Terry
Posted by: Terry | March 14, 2009 at 05:21 PM
If you're interested in finding out how much money you can save by buying conventional produce in the "clean 15," check out http://theredwhiteandgreen.com/2009/03/18/how-much-can-you-save-by-eating-the-clean-15/ on www.theredwhiteandgreen.com.
Posted by: jgrayson | March 18, 2009 at 03:46 PM
Thanks so much for the update...will need to make some adjustments given I buy enough carrots to feed Bugs Bunny!
Posted by: Patty | March 18, 2009 at 07:29 PM
Nice to have the "clean" list for when I'm debating between local, conventional produce and California organic. (Though I doubt I'll find local avocado, mango, or pineapple!)
Odd question for when we're going extremely local--our own backyards: Is there a potential risk of lead in food if we're growing them close to an old house where lead may have seeped into the soil? I have perfect spots for kale and strawberries next to the house, but I'm worried that might be a bad idea.
Posted by: Susan | March 19, 2009 at 01:39 PM
Susan,
Great question about lead in soil. It can definitely be a problem. Soil test kits are available at many garden stores but apparently they are not very accurate. I did find out that the University of MN does soil testing though and since you're local - here's the link! http://soiltest.cfans.umn.edu/scans/2004LG.pdf
Posted by: Micaela | March 21, 2009 at 01:20 PM
Thank you so much for posting this. I'm just starting to make changes in our diet and this is very helpful!
Posted by: klutzymama | July 10, 2009 at 08:39 AM