The dirty dozens? That sounds like a movie and indeed there is a 1967 movie with the same name. It featured stars such as Charles Bronson and Telly Savalas. However, this post is not about entertainment.
The dirty dozen to which I am referring relates to the list of 12 fruits and vegetables which contain the highest level of pesticides.
This list is compiled annually by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). According to them, these are the crops treated with the highest levels, volumes and varieties of pesticides.
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Kale, collard & mustard greens
- Nectarines
- Apples
- Grapes
- Bell & hot Peppers
- Cherries
- Peaches
- Pears
- Celery
- Tomatoes
some of my strawberry plants
So what can one do about it?
If possible buy or grow organic fruits and vegetables. This can prove to be quiet expensive. If possible, plant some vegetables.
Luckily not all good foods need to be organic. The same organization, EWG, also compiles a list of foods grown in the conventional way which do not contain as much pesticides. These are typically foods with shells or casings such as avocados, peas, pineapples, potatoes, sweet corn and mangoes. However, be aware that corn can also be grown from gmo seeds.
It is unfortunate that strawberries are at the top of the dirty dozens list. It’s truly a pity as so many people love strawberries.
If you have seen my previous garden blog, you will know that I have planted strawberries and I am trying to ensure that I have enough for the entire summer. My children love strawberries. Hopefully this year we will lessen our toxic load a bit. This was my first harvest. It was an exciting moment.
I’ve planted 4 other items from the dirty dozen list, on my balcony: spinach, celery, bell peppers and tomatoes. The latter 2 are still inside my house as the weather is not yet consistently warm.
“Healthy happy green” update: harvest
In addition to strawberries-we have been enjoying all types of lettuces and arugula from my table garden. I was very pleased with this harvest and I had enough to share with my neighbors.
Doesn’t it look healthy? The salad was delicious.