Summer is on its way! We tend to eat more fruits and vegetables in the summer because they are so available – and so good! One important thing to consider is to try to eat organic produce whenever you can. Sometimes, this is easier said than done. Your wallet may not cooperate, or you may not have time to search for organic produce. Help is on the way!
The Environmental Working Group just released their 2016 list of veggies and fruits you should really, really try to buy organic…and, those you don’t necessarily have to buy organic.
The list is available at https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/. I always print a copy and keep it in my purse so it’s handy when I shop. Of course, you can also print this article….
The Dirty Dozen, aptly named because EWG suggests, for optimal health and to avoid pesticide residue, buy organic fruits and vegetables when you reach for the following:
- Strawberries
- Apples
- Nectarines
- Peaches
- Celery
- Grapes
- Cherries
- Spinach
- Tomatoes
- Sweet Bell Peppers
- Cherry Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Kale/Collards++
- Zucchini++
Kale, Collards and Zucchini didn’t actually qualify according to Dirty Dozen criteria, but they are commonly grown using a pesticide that is toxic to the nervous system, so are included here in the “plus” rating.
The Clean Fifteen
On the other hand, EWG notes these choices have the lowest pesticide residues. Take advantage of the growing season and incorporate many of these into your meals:
- Avocados
- Corn
- Pineapples
- Cabbage
- Sweet Peas
- Onions
- Asparagus
- Mangoes
- Papayas
- Kiwi
- Eggplant
- Honeydew
- Grapefruit
- Cantaloupe
- Cauliflower
Eat as best as you can to keep your vitality!
