A recent report reveals that popular fruits and vegetables, including spinach, strawberries, and grapes, indicate the highest levels of potentially harmful pesticide residues. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) published its 2026 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce on March 24, listing this year’s “Dirty Dozen” – the 12 fruits and vegetables with the most pesticide residues. The list includes peaches, cherries, apples, blackberries, pears, nectarines, and blueberries, in addition to the aforementioned.
The EWG analyzed the latest residue testing data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture on 47 fruits and vegetables, totaling 54,344 samples. Before testing, produce is peeled, washed, and thoroughly scrubbed to simulate how consumers handle it at home. Despite this, 264 pesticides were detected, with 203 appearing on the “Dirty Dozen” produce.
The Rise of “Forever Chemicals” in Produce
This year’s report marked the first time that over 60% of the “Dirty Dozen” samples contained per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), often referred to as “forever chemicals.” These substances are resistant to breakdown and can persist in the environment for decades. EWG Vice President Bernadette Del Chiaro stated that while PFAS are effective as pesticide ingredients, they pose a significant threat to public health and the environment.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency notes that some PFAS are linked to cancer, obesity, thyroid disease, high cholesterol, infertility, and immune system damage, even at extremely low levels of exposure.
The “Clean Fifteen” Offer a Safer Alternative
Alongside the “Dirty Dozen,” the EWG also released the “Clean Fifteen” – a list of produce with the lowest pesticide residues. Nearly 60% of these samples showed no detectable pesticides. Pineapple, corn, and avocados topped the list, followed by papaya, onions, frozen peas, asparagus, cabbage, cauliflower, watermelon, mangoes, bananas, carrots, mushrooms, and kiwi.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises washing all produce, even organic varieties, before peeling to prevent contamination from knives. The FDA emphasizes that soap or detergents should not be used, as produce pores can absorb chemicals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the “Dirty Dozen”? The “Dirty Dozen” is a list of the 12 fruits and vegetables with the highest levels of pesticide residues, compiled annually by the Environmental Working Group.
- What are PFAS? PFAS are “forever chemicals” that persist in the environment and can pose risks to public health.
- What is the “Clean Fifteen”? The “Clean Fifteen” lists produce with the lowest levels of pesticide residues.
- Should I buy organic produce? The report doesn’t explicitly recommend organic, but suggests prioritizing the “Clean Fifteen” and being more cautious with the “Dirty Dozen.”
Pro Tip: Thoroughly washing produce, even if it’s conventionally grown, can help reduce pesticide residue. Consider peeling fruits and vegetables when appropriate.
What are your thoughts on pesticide residue in produce? Share your concerns and tips in the comments below!
