The Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen: A Parent's Guide to Buying Produce

Committing to organic and healthy eating is a fantastic goal, but it can also feel expensive. A practical approach is to be strategic about which fruits and vegetables you prioritize buying organic. This is where the "Dirty Dozen™" and "Clean Fifteen™" lists from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) become an essential tool for parents.

Every year, the EWG analyzes data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to rank produce based on pesticide residue levels. This helps consumers make informed decisions.

The Dirty Dozen™: Prioritize Buying These Organic
These are the produce items that have been found to have the highest levels of pesticide residues when grown conventionally. Because a baby's exposure relative to their body weight is much higher than an adult's, it's wisest to buy these items organic whenever possible, especially when making your own baby food.
Common items on this list include: Strawberries, Spinach, Kale, Peaches, Pears, Nectarines, Apples, and Grapes.

• Actionable Tip: When preparing first foods like pear or apple puree, choosing organic versions is a great way to reduce your baby's pesticide load.

The Clean Fifteen™: Conventional Versions are Generally Okay
This list includes produce that is least likely to contain pesticide residues. These items typically have thick, inedible peels that are removed, offering a natural barrier of protection. If you are on a tight budget, you can feel more confident buying the conventional versions of these foods.
Common items on this list include: Avocados, Sweet Corn, Pineapple, Onions, Papaya, Sweet Peas (frozen), and Cantaloupe.

• Actionable Tip: Avocado is a perfect first food for babies and is consistently at the top of the Clean Fifteen list, making it a healthy and budget-friendly choice.

Using these lists doesn't have to be about perfection. It's about empowerment. By focusing your organic budget on the Dirty Dozen, you can significantly reduce pesticide exposure while still providing a wide variety of healthy, fresh foods for your baby.