The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has released its annual list of “dirty dozen” foods that contain high levels of pesticide residues. The new additions to the list include strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and potatoes.
According to EWG Senior Scientist Dr. Alexa Friedman, consumers should be aware of chemical contamination when buying fresh produce and consider choosing organic or conventional options with low pesticide residues. “Everyone should eat more fruits and vegetables – organic or conventional,” she said. “But for those who want to reduce their exposure to pesticides, the Shopper’s Guide can be a powerful tool.”
The top five most contaminated produce items on the list are:
1. Spinach, with 75% of non-organic samples containing neurotoxic insecticide permethrin.
2. Strawberries, which have been found to contain dozens of pesticide residues, including hormone-disrupting carbendazim and insecticide bifenthrin.
3. Kale, collard, and mustard greens, with nearly 60% of kale samples contaminated with a possible carcinogen.
4. Grapes, with over 96% of samples testing positive for pesticide residues.
5. Pears, with six out of ten non-organic samples containing traces of five or more pesticides.
The EWG recommends choosing organic options when buying the following produce: strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and potatoes. For other fruits and vegetables, consumers can opt for conventional versions with low pesticide residues.
While the new additions to the list are concerning, experts emphasize that eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is still essential for overall health.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/dirty-dozen-list-pesticides-potatoes-blackberries-b2768039.html