ecoPharmacist

Supplemental Info

The recent article I did on the Environmental Working Group’s list of The Dirty Dozen, Plus, has kept my mind focused on organics and what to buy at the store. I came across some supplemental info that I thought could be helpful for those of us that want to make sure we are eating safe and organic. I received a handy pocket reference guide from the Environmental Working Group, and I thought I would share it. Its good to have a reminder of how to keep our food safe. It has come in handy as a conversation starter with the kids while shopping and even strangers who see us referring to it while shopping. Makes me feel proud, when I see my kids reach for organic foods. I’m simply teaching them about how to care more for themselves…it feels good. The things they learn now, can only make their futures, and lives better.

What Pesticides Are On Your Produce

Have you ever asked what pesticides are on your produce? Do you ever wonder if certain produce could be safer than others? I discussed yesterday that getting produce from different countries can reduce the exposure to pesticides. Each year the Environmental Working Group releases its list of produce you should definitely eat organic, as they contain the most pesticides if not purchased organic.  They call it their Dirty Dozen.

According to the EWG, “In 2012, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued an important report that said that children have “unique susceptibilities to [pesticide residues’] potential toxicity.” The pediatricians’ organization cited research that linked pesticide exposures in early life and “pediatric cancers, decreased cognitive function, and behavioral problems.” It advised its members to urge parents to consult “reliable resources that provide information on the relative pesticide content of various fruits and vegetables.” Health problems such as cancer, developmental problems and lower IQ in children, have been linked to pesticides on fruits and vegetables.

The Environmental Working Group shared its Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce, in late 2015 which ranks pesticide contamination on 48 popular fruits and vegetables. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and Federal Food and Drug Administration, analyze thousands of samples from these popular fruits and vegetables. Pesticides persisted on fruits and vegetables even if they were washed or peeled! That’s bothersome!

“We are saying, eat your fruits and vegetables,” said Sonya Lunder, EWG’s senior analyst. “But know which ones have the highest amounts of pesticides so you can opt for the organic versions, if available and affordable.”

Here are highlights from the EWG’s Dirty Dozen. These fruits and vegetables are ranked from the worst to best:

Apples: More than 45 different pesticides have been detected on apples. That same residue can be found in juices, apple sauce, so it is smart to buy these organic as well.

Peaches: More than 60 different pesticides are found on them. Again find organic or avoid the fruit to reduce exposure to pesticides.

Nectarines: Imported nectarines are among the most highly contaminated tree fruits. Domestic are not quite as bad, but over 33 pesticides have been detected on those.

Strawberries: More than 40 pesticides have been found on strawberries, however fewer are found on frozen strawberries.

Grapes: Imported grapes have more than 50 pesticides, which correlates into raisins have high pesticide residue as well.

Celery: More than 60 pesticides are found on celery. Find organic for a safe alternative.

Spinach: More than 50 pesticides are found on spinach, while frozen spinach has nearly as many, frozen spinach has fewer detected pesticides.

Sweet Bell Peppers: Nearly 50 different pesticides have been detected on sweet bell peppers, all colors.

Cucumbers: As many as 83 different pesticides can remain on the skin of the vegetable even after washing! Peeling the skin can reduce that number, but you still will ingest some pesticides.

Cherry Tomatoes:  If you cannot grow your own tomatoes, you need to find organic.

Potatoes: More than 30 pesticides are fund on potatoes. Sweet potatoes test with fewer pesticides, giving a safer alternative.

Hot Peppers: Unfortunately the hot pepper joins the sweet pepper on the list of foods with the most pesticide residue.

This list is eye opening to me. Just typing out this article, has etched these fruits and vegetables in my brain. The health risks associated with pesticides are too great. I will buy them all organic. It is so scary that our food system is so contaminated! Finding a good source of safe food is crucial. Organic farmer’s markets, local stores that feature organic produce are key. I look forward to spring and the start of a garden of my own, that I know will be pesticide free. Taking the issue into my own hands! Happy gardening to those who enjoy as I do!