By Erica Matteson
In this economy, it can be tough to go fully organic when you’re on a budget. Like many of us, I want to make sure my family is getting the healthiest and most natural foods possible—especially when making baby food at home. But with so much produce covered in pesticides, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news? You don’t have to buy everything organic! Focusing on certain items can make a big difference without breaking the bank, and that’s where the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) come in handy.
If you haven’t heard of these lists, they’re a game-changer. The Dirty Dozen includes the fruits and veggies that tend to have the highest pesticide residues, while the Clean Fifteen highlights those with the lowest levels. Knowing this helps you make informed choices about where to spend your money on organic produce.
For example, I steer clear of non-organic bell peppers, green beans, and cherries—all of which are on the Dirty Dozen list this year. These tend to have higher pesticide residues, so I prefer to get the organic versions when possible. But, I feel comfortable buying conventionally grown items on the Clean Fifteen, like asparagus and sweet potatoes. These items are much lower in pesticides, making them easier on your health and wallet.
One of my favorite aspects of these lists is how simple they make grocery shopping. You don’t have to go overboard trying to make everything in your cart organic. Knowing which items are safest to buy conventionally and which should be prioritized as organic, you can save money and still feel good about what you’re feeding your family.
But here’s the thing: Even if you can’t buy organic every time, there are still things you can do to minimize exposure to pesticides. Make sure to wash your produce thoroughly. Since many pesticides are oil-based (so they don’t wash off in the rain), you might want to use a bit of soap or a special produce wash. However, be mindful that peeling produce, while it helps reduce pesticide exposure, can also strip away important nutrients found in the skin. So washing well and being thoughtful about what you peel is key.
Also, eating a variety of fruits and veggies is important. Not only does it help ensure your family gets a wide range of nutrients, but it also reduces the chances of overexposure to any one pesticide.
The EWG updates these lists annually based on new research, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest version. For those interested in diving deeper into this year’s Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen, you can find all the details on the EWG’s website. It’s such a helpful resource for anyone trying to eat healthier on a budget.
Ultimately, shopping smarter and choosing organic when it really counts can help you and your family enjoy fresh, healthy food without all the worry (and without spending a fortune!). So next time you head to the store, keep these tips in mind. Happy shopping and healthy eating!
