Eating organic can offer health benefits, especially for seniors looking to reduce exposure to pesticides and harmful chemicals that may contribute to a variety of age-related conditions. However, organic produce often comes at a higher cost. To help prioritize spending, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has identified certain foods to avoid unless organic and others that are safer to eat conventionally. Known as EWG’s ‘Dirty Dozen’ and ‘Clean Fifteen,’ these handy lists are a great resource for making healthier, budget-friendly choices at the grocery store.
Visit www.ewg.org for more information.
Dirty Dozen
The EWG ‘Dirty Dozen’ are non-organic fruits and vegetables that are highest in unhealthy pesticide residue:
Strawberries
Spinach
Kale, Collard, and Mustard Greens
Grapes
Peaches
Pears
Nectarines
Apples
Bell and Hot Peppers
Cherries
Blueberries
Breen Beans
Clean Fifteen
The ‘Clean 15’ is a list of 15 non-organic fruits and vegetables that contain the lowest levels of pesticide residue:
Sweetcorn
Avocado
Pineapple
Onions
Papaya
Sweet Peas
Asparagus
Honeydew Melon
Kiwi
Cabbage
Watermelon
Mushrooms
Mango
Sweet potatoes
Carrots
