what is EWG | what is the "Dirty Dozen"
If EWG isn't immediately ringing a bell... fear not. I had no clue what it was either until I recently listened to a TSC His & Her's podcast episode with Dr. Will Cole. Dr. Cole explained he often uses EWG (Environmental Working Group) as a resource to research toxicity in the products/foods he consumes on a recurring basis. One of the most interesting reports EWG publishes on an annual basis is their Dirty Dozen list.
The Dirty Dozen is a guide "based on test results by the Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration of more than 46,000 samples of produce. It is important to note that the samples are tested for pesticides by the USDA and the FDA after they have been prepared to be eaten. This means the produce has been thoroughly washed and, when applicable, peeled. After these preparations, pesticide residues are still detected on many of the fruits and veggies. Every day, consumers rely on EWG's Shopper's Guide to help them make the best choices for their families and reduce their exposures to toxic pesticides."
savvy FINDINGS | aka who is doing us "dirty"
EWG tested 46 items and found these to be the Top 12 fruits and/or vegetables most contaminated with pesticides:
Strawberries
Spinach
Kale, Collard Greens and Mustard Greens
Peaches
Pears
Nectarines
Apples
Grapes
Bell Peppers/Hot Peppers
Cherries
Blueberries
Green Beans
savvy MOVES FORWARD | what are we going to do about it?
As with anything else with anything in this world - B A L A N C E is key. Rather than loading the grocery cart up with all twelve of these dirty boys and girls, maybe stick to one or two. To avoid mass panic here, it is worth noting EWC also produces a Clean 15 Report which I will be sharing soon!
credits | RESOURCES
This post is not sponsored. Information from this article was derived from the Environmental Working Group's website, which can be found below:
Environmental Working Group 2023, EWG website, 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, accessed 22 March 2023, <https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/full-list.php>
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