EWG Releases 2022 Dirty Dozen List

Every year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases a report ranking pesticide residue levels of fruits and vegetables based on samples taken by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration. This report is designed to help consumers make healthy and informed choices and reduce their exposure to toxic pesticides.

The report includes a list of the most pesticide-tainted produce, known as the “Dirty Dozen.” Here’s the 2022 list:

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

In addition to the Dirty Dozen, the EWG publishes the “Clean Fifteen,” highlighting the “cleanest” produce. Avocados and sweet corn continue to top the list.

What Does This Mean?

Most Americans aren’t eating enough fruits and vegetables daily, so don’t let the Dirty Dozen scare you away. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that only 1 in 10 adults eat enough
fruits and vegetables each day. All properly handled fresh produce, whether it’s organic or not, is believed to be safe to eat. Do your best to get your daily dose of healthy fruits and vegetables while still being an informed shopper.

To attempt to remove pesticide residue from non-organic fruits and vegetables, experts recommend rinsing, rubbing or scrubbing them. If you’re still uneasy about pesticides, frozen or canned versions of your favorite produce can be a great alternative. After all, frozen fruits and vegetables are just as nutritious.

Ultimately, it’s important to find what works best for your household and budget.

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Four Screenings for Women’s Health

Preventive care, including regular doctor visits, is important for everyone. There are certain tests and screenings that are specific to women and their needs. Consider incorporating these four screenings, tests and exams into your life to promote good health and prevent the onset of certain conditions.

1. Mammogram—A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray that allows doctors called radiologists to look for changes in breast tissue, which helps doctors find or detect breast cancer early, making treatment more effective. Women should have a mammogram every one to two years after age 50.
2. Pap smears—Women should have their first Pap smear at age 21 and continue to have one three years until they are 65. Women over 65 who have three or more normal Pap smears in a row with no abnormal results can stop having tests.
3. Pelvic exams—Women should have a pelvic exam every one to three years after having three consecutive normal exams to detect signs of illness.
4. Colorectal cancer screening—Women should have a colorectal screening to detect cancerous cells and growths in the inside wall of the colon after the age of 50.

Please speak with your doctor about what other health screenings would be beneficial for you and your personal health.

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