GREAT INFO! WANT TO KNOW THE FRUITS AND VEGETABLES WITH THE LEAST PESTICIDE RESIDUE? PLEASE READ ON.

Conventional agriculture continues to dump huge amounts of toxic chemicals on the food we eat.  These pesticides, fungicides and herbicides accumulate in our cells and over time can damage our organs, resulting in cancers, birth defects, reproductive harm, immune system disorders, neurological and developmental toxicity, and disruption of the endocrine system.  They are especially dangerous to infants and children, whose smaller size and lower body weight mean they absorb a higher percentage of the poisons than adults.
 
Each year since 2004, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) has released its annual Shopper’s Guide.  It includes the “Dirty Dozen” that lists the 12 fruits and vegetables that have the highest amount of pesticide residue.  Accompanying it is the “Clean Fifteen,” which reveals the items with the least amount.  In addition, they have added an additional grouping of fruits and vegetables that fall somewhere in between the two.
 
The EWG rankings are based on test results by the Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of more than 46,000 samples of produce.  The testing is done after the samples have been prepared to be eaten.  This means that the samples are thoroughly washed and, when appropriate, peeled.  The pesticide residues reported remain after the fruits and vegetables are prepared for consumption.
 
While an all-organic diet is optimal, it’s not always possible, given the cost or availability.  The EWG’s guide gives us the knowledge to provide our families with conventional produce that is least harmful.  In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the Shopper’s Guide to pediatricians.

Please click to view the full list of fruits and vegetables.

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