The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has released its 2025 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce, a comprehensive guide that helps consumers make informed choices about the fruits and vegetables they buy. The guide ranks produce according to pesticide residue levels, frequency, concentration, and toxicity.
The EWG categorizes produce into two groups: Clean Fifteen and Dirty Dozen. The Clean Fifteen includes 15 items with low pesticide residue levels, while the Dirty Dozen features 12 items with high pesticide residue levels. Fruits and vegetables are essential for a healthy diet, but some produce contains high concentrations of pesticide residues that can negate their nutritional benefits.
Pesticides are substances used to kill or control pests, including insects, weeds, fungi, and rodents. They are commonly applied when growing produce or after it is harvested and can be harmful to human health. Research suggests that pesticides may disrupt hormones, affect fertility, reduce ovarian function, and diminish sperm quality. Exposure to pesticides has also been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
The EWG’s guide provides tips on how to effectively reduce pesticide exposure. It recommends buying organic or conventional versions of produce from the Clean Fifteen list, as well as organic options of items on the Dirty Dozen whenever possible. Thoroughly washing all produce for at least 15 seconds under running water can also significantly decrease pesticide residue levels.
The EWG’s Shopper’s Guide results show that nearly 60% of Clean Fifteen fruits and vegetables had no detectable pesticide residue, while 96% of samples from the Dirty Dozen contained pesticide residues. The top six items on the Clean Fifteen list – pineapple, sweet corn, avocado, papaya, onion, and sweet peas – had no detectable pesticide residues in any sample.
The EWG’s guide provides a valuable tool for consumers to make informed decisions about their produce shopping choices. By following these tips, consumers can reduce their exposure to pesticides and enjoy the nutritional benefits of fruits and vegetables.
Source: https://www.foodandwine.com/dirty-dozen-produce-environmental-working-group-report-2025-11751048