Pesticides & Produce

If you watched the news in the past 24 hours, you probably have seen the story about our produce supply and pesticides. Is our produce supply safe? Should we buy organic? What can we do to reduce our exposure to pesticides?

First of all, don’t stop eating fruits and vegetables! Although vegetables and fruits may contain low levels of these chemicals, the American Cancer Society (ACS) reminds us that there is overwhelming evidence supporting the health benefits and cancer-protective effects of diets rich in vegetables and fruits. The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) agrees. According to their website, “The benefits of eating more of these foods [fruits and vegetables], conventional or organic, strongly outweigh any potential risks.”

The Environmental Working Group’s Shoppers Guide to Pesticides in Produce is an excellent source for information.  EWG lists the Dirty Dozen produce items that they recommending buying organic, when possible:

The Dirty Dozen – Buy these organic (Courtesy of www.ewg.org/foodnews/summary)

1. apples

2. celery

3. strawberry

4. peaches

5. spinach

6. nectarines (imported)

7. grapes (imported)

8. sweet bell peppers

9. potatoes

10. blueberries (domestic)

11. lettuce

12. kale/collard greens

But what if organic isn’t available? What if it’s too expensive? What are your other options?

• Eat the “Dirty Dozen” less often. Choose to eat the “Clean 15” fruits and vegetables lowest in pesticides most often.
• Consider frozen organic, if available.
• Wash produce with a scrub brush and running water and peel any outer skins to remove as much of the pesticide residue as possible.
• Talk with local farmers. Even if they do not have organic farms, you may be able to find out what practices and pesticides are used.

Buy local. Freshly picked local produce may have more nutrients than imported organic produce that traveled thousands of miles to your market.