Understanding the dirty dozen
Hey Blushtone babes,
Today, let’s chat about something that’s not only important for our health but also for our planet: the Dirty Dozen.
Picture this: you’re strolling through the produce section, eyeing those vibrant strawberries and crisp apples. They look delicious, but have you ever wondered what else might be lingering on them besides nutrients? The Dirty Dozen is all about shedding light on the fruits and veggies that tend to carry the highest pesticide residues when grown conventionally. These residues, used to protect crops from pests and diseases, can potentially affect our health if consumed in large amounts.
Here’s what’s topping the list for 2024:
Strawberries
Spinach
Kale
Nectarines
Apples
Grapes
Peaches
Cherries
Pears
Tomatoes
Celery
Potatoes
But don’t worry—I’m not here to scare you away from your favorite fruits and veggies! The Dirty Dozen is more like a helpful guide that empowers us to make informed choices. It’s a nudge to consider opting for organic versions of these items, which are grown without synthetic pesticides. Choosing organic food can reduce our exposure to potentially harmful chemicals and support sustainable farming practices. Plus, it’s a way to invest in our health and the health of our planet.
On the flip side, there’s the Clean Fifteen—fruits and veggies that tend to have the lowest pesticide residues even when conventionally grown. If you’re looking to save a few dollars without compromising on safety, these are generally considered safe to buy conventionally:
Avocados
Sweet corn
Pineapple
Onions
Papaya
Sweet peas (frozen)
Eggplant
Asparagus
Broccoli
Cabbage
Kiwi
Cauliflower
Mushrooms
Honeydew melon
Cantaloupe
Remember, it’s all about making choices that work for you and your lifestyle. Whether you decide to go organic or not, the key is to enjoy a variety of fruits and veggies as part of a balanced diet. So, let the Dirty Dozen be your guide as you navigate the produce aisle, and here’s to making deliciously healthy choices that nourish both body and soul!
Stay well,
BLUSHTONE