Fruits and Vegetables Loaded With Pesticides

Published by

Randy Bilesky

Randy Bilesky BScF CPA RPF

President at Go Green 778-886-4111 gogreenpestcontrol.ca@gmail.com

While the term “loaded” might be subjective, some fruits and vegetables tend to have higher pesticide residues than others. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) publishes an annual list called the “Dirty Dozen” that highlights produce with the highest pesticide residues. Here are six commonly featured on such lists:

  1. Strawberries: Strawberries often rank high for pesticide residue due to their delicate nature and susceptibility to pests.
  2. Spinach: Spinach is another leafy green that typically has high pesticide residues, possibly due to its large surface area and vulnerability to pests.
  3. Apples: Apples are often heavily treated with pesticides to prevent pests and diseases, which can lead to residues on the fruit.
  4. Grapes: Grapes, especially when imported, may have high pesticide residues, both on the fruit and in the form of residues on the skin from various treatments.
  5. Bell Peppers: Bell peppers, both green and colored varieties, can contain significant pesticide residues, especially if conventionally grown.
  6. Potatoes: Potatoes are often treated with pesticides throughout their growth cycle to prevent pests and diseases, leading to residues on the skin and sometimes even inside the flesh.

These fruits and vegetables are commonly recommended to be purchased organic if you’re concerned about pesticide exposure, as organic varieties are grown without synthetic pesticides.

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