Strawberries can contain up to 20 pesticides?
Among the 12 dirtiest fruits and vegetables in America, strawberries rank number one because they can contain up to 20 types of pesticides.
To protect consumer health, every year, the organizationThe Environmental Working Group has released a list of the 12 dirtiest fruits and vegetables. This year, for the third year in a row, strawberries topped the list. Next came spinach,nectarines, apples, grapes, peaches, cherries, pears, tomatoes, celery, potatoes and bell peppers.
According toCNNThe list was selected from 47 non-organic fruits and vegetables based on six criteria, including the amount and residue of pesticides. The results showed that one strawberry sample was contaminated with 20 pesticides. The spinach samples also contained 1.8 times more pesticide residue than other crops.
In addition to the 12 types of vegetables and fruits mentioned,The Environmental Working Group is warning the public to be wary of chilli peppers after discovering they contain a neurotoxin.
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Strawberries are considered the dirtiest fruit in America. Photo:CNN |
Science has long proven that pesticides are harmful to humans, especially children. The American Academy of Pediatrics points outpesticides can lead toChronic health complications include neurodevelopmental and behavioral problems, birth defects, asthma, and cancer. Children exposed to pesticides in the womb are also at risk.
To limit risks,The Environmental Working Group recommends that consumers who want to eat produce on the list of the 12 dirtiest fruits and vegetables should only buy organic products. In addition, remember to wash them before use for at least 30 seconds with clean water or a solution of water and baking soda asUniversity of Massachusetts suggestsCooking is also an effective method to reduce toxins.
In addition to the 12 dirtiest fruits and vegetables, the Environmental Working Group also compiled a list of the 15 cleanest fruits and vegetables. Avocado tops the list. The next spots go to corn, pineapple, cabbage, onions, frozen peas, papaya, asparagus, mango, eggplant, cantaloupe, kiwi, cantaloupe, cauliflower, and broccoli.
