Have you heard about the dirty dozen and clean fifteen?

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has released the 2021 shoppers guide of the worst offenders of pesticides, synthetic chemicals, fertilisers, and genetically modified organisms (GMO’s) and the cleanest options.

A great way to include more organic produce in your fridge is to buy the dirty dozen organic where you can.

Dirty Dozen

  • Strawberries
  • Spinach
  • Kale, collard & mustard greens
  • Nectarines
  • Apples
  • Grapes
  • Cherries
  • Peaches
  • Pears
  • Capsicum & chillis
  • Celery
  • Tomatoes

The clean fifteen have the lowest amount of pesticides, synthetic chemicals, fertilisers, and GMO’s present. Remember to always give them a good wash with water and apple cider vinegar.

Clean Fifteen

  • Avocados
  • Sweet corn
  • Pineapple
  • Onions
  • Papaya
  • Frozen peas (sweet peas)
  • Eggplant
  • Asparagus
  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Kiwi
  • Cauliflower
  • Mushrooms
  • Honeydew melon
  • Rockmelon

The dirty dozen and clean fifteen takes into consideration the worst offenders and cleanest options around the world. This is helpful if you shop at a supermarket where our local farmer's mix with international suppliers.

If you head to your local farmers market, don't assume that the produce is organic. Always ask if not signposted. Many stallholders are more than happy to have a chat and answer your questions.

September 14, 2021