You can make this easier on yourself by going for what’s in season. That way, your purchases will change throughout the year (and your produce will be fresher, too).
There is also produce that has much higher pesticide exposure over time. These are often called “the dirty dozen,” and they include apples, celery, sweet bell peppers, peaches, strawberries, nectarines (imported), grapes, spinach, lettuce, cucumbers, blueberries (domestic), and potatoes. [3] X Research source
While some research supports this, other studies say that even organic produce can contain pesticide residue. [4] X Trustworthy Source National Pesticide Information Center Organization run by Oregon State University providing objective, science-based information about pests and pesticides Go to source Organic products might be slightly better, but they aren’t completely clean. [5] X Research source
Most farmer’s markets happen during the spring, summer, and fall when the weather is nice. Keep in mind that purchasing produce from a farmer’s market is usually more expensive than buying it from your local grocery store.
Different veggies thrive during different seasons and in different parts of the globe. Before you start your vegetable garden, look online to see what kind of produce you should start with and when to plant it.
While you may have heard that you need to use soap or produce wash, the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says that running water is just fine. [9] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U. S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source Produce is porous, and can actually absorb the soap or wash that you use, which can make you sick.
Root vegetables include carrots, potatoes, radishes, and beets. If you don’t have a produce brush, you can just use your fingers.
Try peeling potatoes, carrots, cucumbers, and zucchini. Keep in mind that peeling your produce can remove some of the essential nutrients.
Some leafy vegetables come “pre-washed” or “ready-to-eat. ” If that’s the case, you technically don’t need to wash them before eating. [14] X Trustworthy Source US Food and Drug Administration U. S. government agency responsible for promoting public health Go to source
Pesticides accumulate in animals when they eat crops that have been contaminated. They can also accumulate when animals eat another animal that has eaten pesticides.
