Strawberries, Spinach & Kale Are The Most Contaminated With Pesticides, Study Finds

It might be time to switch up those dinner plans tonight because the Environmental Working Group (EWG) just released its annual "Dirty Dozen" list, and there are many popular foods listed.

To create the Dirty Dozen, EWG analyzed 46 produce items to come up with the 12 fruits and vegetables that are most contaminated with pesticides. The produce analyzed includes both domestic and imported fruits and vegetables that consumers can buy in the U.S.

For consumers concerned about the amount of pesticides they're eating, EWG recommends that they only consume organic versions of Dirty Dozen items. The organization also stresses that it's important to get the recommended amount of fruits and veggies regardless of how they're grown.

"Everyone should eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, whether organic or conventionally grown. The health benefits of such a diet outweigh the risks of pesticide exposure," the group said.

To all the lovers of leafy greens and berries out there, the list might come across as a bit of a shocker, so brace yourselves.

The full Dirty Dozen list can be found below:

1. Strawberries

2. Spinach

3. Kale, Collard & Mustard Greens

4. Grapes

5. Peaches

6. Pears

7. Nectarines

8. Apples

9. Bell & Hot Peppers

10. Cherries

11. Blueberries

12. Green Beans

Before you get too stressed out about your next grocery run, the group did also share "The Clean Fifteen," which are items with the lowest amounts of pesticide.

The fruits and vegetables listed on EWG's Clean Fifteen list are:

1. Avocados

2. Sweet Corn

3. Pineapple

4. Onions

5. Papaya

6. Sweet Peas (Frozen)

7. Asparagus

8. Honeydew Melon

9. Kiwi

10. Cabbage

11. Watermelon

12. Mushrooms

13. Mangoes

14. Sweet Potatoes

15. Carrots

Suddenly we want to eat lots of guac.

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