Each year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) tests thousands of produce samples for pesticide residues—and the results for 2025 are in!
These rankings help you shop smarter, so you can protect your health and your wallet. Spoiler: strawberries still top the Dirty Dozen 🍓.
🚨 What Are These Lists?
Dirty Dozen:
The 12 types of produce found with the highest pesticide residues—even after washing and peeling. Tested by USDA on over 53,000 samples.
Clean Fifteen:
15 fruits and vegetables with the lowest pesticide levels. Nearly 60% had no detectable residues.
🥦 Dirty Dozen 2025 (Buy Organic if You Can)
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Kale, collard & mustard greens
- Grapes
- Peaches
- Pears
- Nectarines
- Apples
- Bell & hot peppers
- Cherries
- Blueberries
- Green beans
➕ New add-ons: Blackberries & potatoes rejoined the Dirty Dozen this year due to high pesticide presence (93% of samples for blackberries; 90% for potatoes)
🍍 Clean Fifteen 2025 (Safe to Buy Conventional)
- Pineapple
- Sweet corn (fresh/frozen)
- Avocados
- Papaya
- Onion
- Sweet peas (frozen)
- Asparagus
- Cabbage
- Watermelon
- Cauliflower
- Bananas (new this year)
- Mangoes
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Kiwi
— Conventional options are generally safe due to low residue and protective skin.
💡 Why It Matters
- Pesticide exposure has been linked to hormone disruption, developmental issues, and even cancer in long-term studies.
- These lists help you prioritize buying organic only when it matters most—letting you allocate your budget smarter.
🛒 How to Shop Smart with These Lists
| Strategy | Tips |
|---|---|
| Dirty Dozen | Always opt for organic when you can—especially for berries, leafy greens, and peaches. |
| Clean Fifteen | Conventional is okay! Save money and still get the nutrition. |
| Middle-run produce | Items not on either list? Wash thoroughly and choose organic when it fits your budget. |
| Prep wisely | Rinse under warm running water or use apple cider vinegar for extra cleaning. |
🧠 Final Takeaway
You don’t have to go full organic to eat well. Let data guide you—spend where it counts (Dirty Dozen) and don’t stress about the rest (Clean Fifteen). No guilt, just smart choices.
Clean Life Heids 
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