The Right Way to Wash Dirty Dozen: essential step to reduce pesticide exposure

 What is the Dirty Dozen?

The Dirty Dozen is a list compiled by the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting human health and the environment. The list includes fruits and vegetables that tend to have higher pesticide residues even after they’ve been washed or peeled. According to the EWG’s research, these foods are the most likely to carry pesticides that could affect your health over time.

Here’s the latest list of the Dirty Dozen for 2025:

1. Strawberries
2. Spinach
3. Kale, collard, and mustard greens
4. Nectarines
5. Apples
6. Grapes
7. Peaches
8. Cherries
9. Pears
10. Tomatoes
11. Celery
12. Potatoes

These fruits and vegetables are often exposed to pesticides during their cultivation process. Even after washing or peeling, they can still have residue that may be harmful over time. For this reason, it’s a good idea to purchase organic versions of these items when possible, or wash them thoroughly to minimize pesticide exposure.

Why Should You Care About the Dirty Dozen?

The concern over pesticide exposure stems from potential long-term health effects, such as hormone disruption, developmental issues, and even cancer. Children and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to these risks, so it’s especially important to minimize pesticide consumption. By being aware of the Dirty Dozen, you can make informed choices about which produce to buy organic and how to wash them effectively.

How to Wash the Dirty Dozen

While buying organic produce is the best way to reduce pesticide exposure, not everyone has access to or the budget for organic options. If you buy conventional produce from the Dirty Dozen list, washing it thoroughly can help reduce pesticide residues. Here are some tips on how to wash these fruits and vegetables properly:

1. Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Collard Greens, etc.)

Leafy greens are notorious for holding onto dirt and pesticides in their crevices. Here's how to wash them:

• Separate the leaves: Gently pull the leaves apart and discard any damaged or wilted ones.
• Soak and rinse: Soak the leaves in a bowl of cold water for a few minutes to loosen dirt. Swirl the leaves around gently to release dirt.
• Rinse under cold running water: After soaking, rinse the leaves under cold water, rubbing them gently to remove any remaining pesticides or bacteria.
• Dry thoroughly: Use a salad spinner or a clean cloth to dry the leaves.

2. Berries (Strawberries, Blueberries, etc.)

Berries are delicate and can be easily damaged during washing. Follow these steps:

• Use a colander: Place berries in a colander and rinse gently under cold water.
• Do not soak: Soaking berries can cause them to become mushy. Just rinse them quickly.
• Dry gently: Pat the berries dry with a clean paper towel or cloth to absorb excess water.

3. Apples and Pears

Apples and pears have thick skins that can hold onto pesticide residues. Here’s how to wash them:

• Rinse under running water: Hold the fruit under cold running water and rub the surface with your hands to remove dirt and pesticides.
• Use a soft brush: If necessary, use a soft brush to scrub the skin of the fruit.
• Dry with a clean cloth: After rinsing, dry the fruit with a clean towel to remove any remaining moisture.

4. Grapes and Cherries

Like berries, grapes and cherries need a gentle touch to avoid bruising:

• Rinse under cold water: Place grapes or cherries in a colander and rinse them thoroughly under cool running water.
• Dry well: Use a clean towel to dry them after washing, as moisture can lead to faster spoilage.

5. Peaches and Nectarines

Peaches and nectarines are often covered in fuzz, which can trap dirt and pesticide residues. Here’s the best way to wash them:

• Rinse gently: Hold the fruit under cold running water, gently rubbing the surface with your hands.
• Use a brush: For extra cleaning, use a soft fruit brush to remove any dirt or pesticide residue from the skin.
• Dry with a towel: After rinsing, pat the fruit dry to remove moisture.

6. Tomatoes

Tomatoes have thin skins that can absorb pesticides. To wash them properly:

• Rinse under cool water: Hold the tomatoes under running cold water and gently rub them with your hands to remove dirt and chemicals.
• Dry with a clean cloth: Pat the tomatoes dry with a towel after rinsing.

7. Potatoes and Celery

Potatoes and celery are also part of the Dirty Dozen, and while potatoes are usually peeled, it’s important to wash them thoroughly before cooking. Here's how:

• Scrub with a brush: Use a vegetable brush to scrub the surface of potatoes under cold running water.
• Rinse celery thoroughly: For celery, rinse the stalks under cold water, ensuring you clean the spaces between the stalks.
• Dry with a towel: After washing, pat the potatoes and celery dry with a clean towel.

Should You Use a Produce Wash?

There are commercial produce washes available that claim to remove pesticides, but research shows that plain water is just as effective. If you prefer using a wash, choose one that is specifically designed for fruits and vegetables and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. However, water, along with proper scrubbing and drying, is typically sufficient for removing pesticide residues.

Organic Options: Is It Worth It?

While washing helps reduce pesticide exposure, buying organic produce is the best way to avoid pesticide residues altogether. Organic fruits and vegetables are grown without synthetic pesticides, making them a safer option for you and your family. When purchasing produce from the Dirty Dozen, try to prioritize organic options, especially for items that you eat with the skin on.

Final Thoughts

Washing the Dirty Dozen properly is an essential step in reducing pesticide exposure and ensuring the safety of your produce. While buying organic is ideal, washing conventional fruits and vegetables thoroughly can help minimize potential risks. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy fresh, clean, and safe produce without worrying about harmful chemicals.

Remember to always rinse your fruits and vegetables under cold water, use a brush when necessary, and dry them thoroughly before storing or eating. Your health—and your taste buds—will thank you!