Pesticides are used to protect crops from pests, but their chemical residues can pose risks to human health. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) shares its Dirty Dozen list each year to highlight fruits and veggies with the highest pesticide residues — yes, even after washing! While pesticide exposure might seem minor on a daily basis, over time it can build up in the body. Here are 12 foods you should always buy organic.

Consuming non-organic versions of these foods can mean exposure to a range of chemicals, some of which are linked to long-term health risks. By choosing organic for the items on the Dirty Dozen list, you’re not only reducing your exposure but also supporting farming practices that rely on natural pest management. 

Strawberries

Strawberries often top the Dirty Dozen list due to their porous skin, which absorbs pesticides more easily than thicker-skinned fruits. Conventional strawberry farms use a variety of pesticides, some of which have been linked to hormone disruption. This low-sugar fruit is also consumed frequently and often raw, increasing potential exposure to residual chemicals. Going organic with strawberries minimizes this exposure and keeps these delicious berries safe to enjoy in abundance.

Spinach

Spinach is known for its nutrient density, but conventionally grown spinach is also notorious for high pesticide levels, including several that can affect human health. Thin, absorbent leaves make this iron-rich food vulnerable to pesticides sprayed directly on them, allowing residues to remain even after washing. Pesticides used on spinach have been associated with potential neurological and reproductive issues.

Kale, Collard, and Mustard Greens

These leafy greens pack a nutritional punch but unfortunately are also among the most pesticide-contaminated vegetables. Some of the chemicals used in conventional farming for these greens have been linked to potential carcinogenic effects. These calcium-rich foods have textured leaves that trap pesticides, which are difficult to wash away.

Grapes

Grapes, another highly porous fruit, rank high on the Dirty Dozen list due to their exposure to multiple pesticides. Grown in clusters, grapes are sprayed frequently to prevent pests and mold, which often leads to residual chemicals on each grape. Pesticides found on grapes have been linked to potential reproductive and developmental issues.

Peaches

Peaches have a delicate, fuzzy skin that traps pesticides, making them one of the fruits most likely to retain chemical residues. Conventionally grown peaches are often sprayed heavily to prevent pests and diseases, leading to pesticide traces that are hard to wash off. Some pesticides used on peaches are linked to endocrine and reproductive disruption.

Pears

Pears are susceptible to a variety of pesticides, including fungicides and insecticides, due to their long growth period. Thin skins allow these chemicals to seep into the fruit, making it harder to wash off residues. Some of the pesticides used in conventional pear farming have been associated with potential liver and kidney damage.

Nectarines

Nectarines share a close genetic relation to peaches and face similar pesticide challenges due to their delicate skins. These fruits are often treated with multiple types of chemicals, some of which are known to affect hormone levels and nervous system health. The smooth skin of nectarines absorbs pesticides that linger even after washing.

Apples

Apples, one of the most popular fruits, are sprayed with various chemicals, from pesticides to fungicides, during growth and storage. The thin skin readily absorbs these chemicals, and many conventionally grown apples carry residues even after washing. Studies have linked some of these chemicals to respiratory and neurological concerns.

Bell and Hot Peppers

Peppers are often sprayed with pesticides to ward off pests, and their thin skins don’t protect them from chemical absorption. Hot peppers in particular are prone to pesticide contamination, which can be difficult to wash off completely. Some of the pesticides used on peppers have been associated with potential risks to the endocrine system. Buying organic peppers can help minimize these health risks, especially if you enjoy them raw or in high quantities.

Cherries

Cherries are susceptible to a variety of pests, which means they are frequently treated with pesticides in conventional farming. Their thin skins easily absorb these chemicals, resulting in residues that linger despite washing. Pesticides on cherries have been linked to potential carcinogenic and neurotoxic effects. Organic cherries offer a safer way to enjoy this vibrant, seasonal fruit without hidden chemical additives.

Blueberries

Blueberries are small, thin-skinned, and often consumed raw, making them particularly susceptible to pesticide residues. Conventional blueberry farms use multiple chemicals to protect the crops from pests and fungi, and these residues can be hard to wash away. Some pesticides used on blueberries are linked to potential hormonal disruption. Opting for organic blueberries ensures a safer option for this antioxidant-rich superfood.

Green Beans

Green beans often contain a variety of pesticide residues, some of which are known for their potential toxic effects. Their skins readily absorb pesticides, and they’re typically consumed with the skin intact, increasing exposure to these chemicals. Pesticides used on green beans are sometimes linked to health concerns such as developmental and reproductive issues.