2020 Dirty Dozen Foods List: What You Need to Know About Pesticide Residues
Choose produce wisely to lower chemical intake and protect your loved ones.
Each year, the nonprofit Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases its widely discussed Dirty Dozen list, ranking commercially grown fruits and vegetables by their levels of pesticide residues. The 2020 edition once again put a spotlight on produce safety and shopping choices, generating national conversation about how to enjoy healthy eating while minimizing exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. This comprehensive guide unpacks the 2020 Dirty Dozen list, what it means for consumers, why it matters, and how you can make informed choices for yourself and your family.
What Is the Dirty Dozen List?
The Dirty Dozen list is an annual report compiled by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) using data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The list highlights twelve types of produce that, according to testing, contain the highest levels of pesticide residues when grown using conventional (non-organic) farming methods. The aim is to help shoppers make more informed choices at the grocery store by understanding which items are most likely to be contaminated – and may be a higher priority for buying organic or handling more carefully.
While the presence of these residues does not necessarily mean these foods are unsafe, the EWG and other advocates argue that reducing exposure to pesticides is beneficial for long-term health, particularly for vulnerable groups like pregnant women and children.
Behind the List: How the Dirty Dozen Is Compiled
To generate their rankings, the EWG analyzed results from over 43,000 samples of 47 different fruits and vegetables collected by the USDA and FDA. These samples are tested for the presence of hundreds of different pesticide types. The Dirty Dozen are the twelve foods with samples most frequently found to contain pesticide residues, as well as those containing the largest number and highest concentrations of different pesticides after being washed and, when appropriate, peeled as they typically would before eating.
- The EWG supplements this data with special reports or additions (e.g. raisins or chickpeas) when notable, even if the product is not a “fresh” fruit or vegetable.
- The report does not recommend eliminating conventional produce (non-organic) altogether but encourages consumers to consider eating a variety and, when possible, choose organic versions of listed items.
The 2020 Dirty Dozen Foods List
Here are the top 12 fruits and vegetables identified by the EWG in 2020 as having the most pesticide residue:
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Kale
- Nectarines
- Apples
- Grapes
- Peaches
- Cherries
- Pears
- Tomatoes
- Celery
- Potatoes
The order reflects the frequency, type, and amount of pesticide residue detected. For the fifth consecutive year, strawberries topped the list, while leafy greens, particularly spinach and kale, remained highly ranked following new findings concerning specific herbicides used in their cultivation.
Spotlight: Raisins and Other Processed Produce
Interestingly, the EWG flagged raisins in 2020’s report, since the USDA tested them for residues for the first time. Nearly 99% of raisin samples had detectable pesticide residues, with one sample containing traces of 26 different pesticides. While technically a processed food and not included in the core Dirty Dozen, raisins would have been ranked number one if included.
Why Are Pesticides in Produce a Concern?
Pesticides are used in agriculture to protect crops from weeds, fungi, and insects. However, scientific research has linked chronic pesticide exposure to potential health risks, especially for children and pregnant women, including:
- Disruption of hormone systems
- Neurological and behavioral effects
- Some increased risks for cancers
- Potential impacts on fertility and endocrine health
Regulatory agencies, including the USDA and EPA, set rigorous safety limits for pesticide residues, and the levels detected in most U.S. produce are well below those limits. Nevertheless, the EWG and some independent scientists advise precaution and recommend minimizing unnecessary exposure when practical, particularly since research into long-term low-level exposure is ongoing.
Expert Perspective: Should You Avoid the Dirty Dozen?
Nutrition and public health experts generally agree that eating more fruits and vegetables is key to good health, regardless of whether they are organic. Completely avoiding conventional produce due to pesticide concerns is not recommended; rather, the Dirty Dozen is intended as a guide for those who wish to further reduce exposure, not discourage healthy eating.
Tips from nutritionists include:
- If you are concerned, prioritize organic versions of listed Dirty Dozen items.
- Wash and scrub all produce thoroughly under running water, which can significantly reduce surface residues.
- Peel produce when appropriate (keeping in mind some nutrients and fiber are lost with peels).
- Eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to reduce repeated exposure from one source.
The Clean Fifteen: Lowest Pesticide Produce
Counterbalancing the Dirty Dozen, the EWG also releases a Clean Fifteen list of fruits and vegetables with the lowest levels of pesticide residue. These are considered safest to purchase in conventional (non-organic) form.
| Rank | Produce |
|---|---|
| 1 | Avocados |
| 2 | Sweet corn |
| 3 | Pineapple |
| 4 | Onions |
| 5 | Papaya |
| 6 | Sweet peas (frozen) |
| 7 | Eggplant |
| 8 | Asparagus |
| 9 | Cauliflower |
| 10 | Broccoli |
| 11 | Mushrooms |
| 12 | Cantaloupe |
| 13 | Honeydew Melon |
| 14 | Kiwi |
| 15 | Cabbage |
More than 70% of Clean Fifteen samples had no detectable pesticide residues at all, making these foods a good choice for budget-minded buyers who want to prioritize organic purchasing elsewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Dirty Dozen and Pesticide Residues
What is the Environmental Working Group (EWG)?
The EWG is an American nonprofit organization specializing in research and advocacy in areas like toxic chemicals, drinking water pollutants, and agricultural subsidies. Its annual Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce, featuring the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen, is based on analysis of government testing data.
How does washing and peeling affect pesticide residues?
Washing under running water can remove some pests and dirt, as well as a portion of surface pesticides. Peeling can further reduce pesticide ingestion but also removes valuable nutrients found in skins. Cooking does not necessarily reduce pesticide residues but may alter them.
Are organic foods completely free of pesticides?
No. Organic farmers may use pesticides derived from natural sources and meet strict regulations about their use. However, organic produce is typically grown with fewer and less persistent chemicals. Government testing consistently finds far fewer pesticide residues on organic foods.
Is it safe to eat Dirty Dozen foods if organic isn’t available?
Yes. Eating a diverse range of fruits and vegetables is far more important for overall health than the potential risks posed by pesticide residues found on Dirty Dozen produce, especially given current regulatory standards and safety limits. Experts recommend not avoiding produce altogether due to these concerns.
Why do the rankings change from year to year?
USDA sampling cycles and shifts in pesticide use practices can change the rankings slightly each year. For example, leafy greens such as kale and spinach have surged in the rankings in recent years due to increased pesticide findings.
Special Note: Chickpeas, Hummus, and Other Processed Foods
In 2020, the EWG followed up with a report on legumes like store-bought hummus and various forms of chickpeas after USDA testing revealed residues of multiple pesticides. While not included in the Dirty Dozen proper because they are processed or canned, these findings further emphasize the value of checking ingredient sources when shopping for plant-based snacks.
How to Shop and Eat Safely: Practical Pesticide-Reduction Tips
- Prioritize organic for Dirty Dozen foods when feasible, especially for children, pregnant women, or if eating large quantities.
- Shop Clean Fifteen items in their conventional form to save money without significantly increasing risk.
- Properly wash fruits and vegetables under running water rather than soaking or using soaps or detergents. Consider a produce brush for hard-skinned items.
- Peel produce like potatoes and apples if concerned, though some nutrients and fiber are lost.
- Support local farms and ask about their pest management practices. Some smaller conventional farms use fewer chemicals than large-scale growers.
- Eat a wide range of produce to limit repeated pesticide exposure from a single crop.
Should You Be Worried About Pesticides on Produce?
While the EWG’s findings regularly draw media attention and consumer anxiety, major health authorities such as the American Cancer Society, the USDA, and the FDA stress that the health benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables far outweigh the risks of pesticide residue exposure for most people. Still, being aware and making personal choices based on your health needs, budget, and preferences is encouraged by public health experts. Ultimately, increasing your intake of any fruits and vegetables, regardless of type, is a positive step for well-being.
Summary Table: Dirty Dozen vs. Clean Fifteen (2020)
| Dirty Dozen | Clean Fifteen |
|---|---|
| Strawberries | Avocados |
| Spinach | Sweet corn |
| Kale | Pineapple |
| Nectarines | Onions |
| Apples | Papaya |
| Grapes | Sweet peas (frozen) |
| Peaches | Eggplant |
| Cherries | Asparagus |
| Pears | Cauliflower |
| Tomatoes | Broccoli |
| Celery | Mushrooms |
| Potatoes | Cantaloupe |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How can I further reduce pesticide exposure at home?
A: Use a produce brush on hard-skinned produce, dry produce after washing with a clean cloth, and trim away outer leaves of leafy vegetables. Storing produce properly and eating seasonally can also reduce risk.
Q: Does imported produce have higher pesticide residue?
A: Not necessarily. Both domestic and imported produce are tested and regulated, but individual sample results can vary. Always wash produce well, regardless of country of origin.
Q: Is buying organic worth the extra cost?
A: For shoppers who want to minimize pesticide exposure and who can afford it, organic versions of fruits and vegetables on the Dirty Dozen list may be a worthwhile investment. For lower-risk items like those on the Clean Fifteen, conventional is likely sufficient for most.
Q: How often are the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists updated?
A: The EWG releases updated lists every spring, based on the most recent rounds of USDA and FDA pesticide testing.
Key Takeaways for Healthy, Informed Eating
- The EWG’s 2020 Dirty Dozen highlights produce with the highest pesticide residues: strawberries, spinach, and kale top the list.
- Don’t let the list deter you from eating produce generally – the benefits far outweigh the perceived risks.
- Use the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen as shopping tools if you want to reduce pesticide load, but don’t feel guilty if you can’t buy organic for everything.
- Wash produce thoroughly and eat a variety of fruits and vegetables for the healthiest diet.
References
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/health/diet-nutrition/a31916678/dirty-dozen-foods-2020-list/
- https://draxe.com/health/dirty-dozen/
- https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/food-products/a65060500/dirty-dozen-list-2025/
- https://itsallgoodvegan.com/2021/03/15/the-dirty-dozen/
- https://www.wellandgood.com/food/dirty-dozen-produce-pesticide-contamination
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