The Clean 15

We always recommend opting for organic produce, but there are certain foods you should not worry too much about - here are the "Clean 15"

Dr Ferro avatar
Written by Dr Ferro
Updated over a week ago

When is it necessary to buy organic? 15 Produce you should not worry about!

Are you going grocery shopping this weekend or heading to the farmer's market?

At Betr we recommend opting for organic produce, but we know this can quickly add up to a big bill!

A great way to shop smartly- that is not spend unnecessary money on organic produce is by following The Environmental Working Group's suggestions. They provide two lists- one is the “Dirty Dozen” foods - that is the 12 foods that are absolutely best bought organic and “The Clean 15”, the foods that have little to no traces of pesticides and are safe to consume in non-organic form.

The EWG also provides a great "Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce" -. This list contains 49 types of produce, rated on a scale of least to most pesticide residue.

Without further wait, “The Clean 15” are:

  • onions

  • avocados

  • sweet corn

  • pineapples

  • mango

  • sweet peas

  • asparagus

  • kiwi fruit

  • cabbage

  • eggplant

  • cantaloupe

  • watermelon

  • grapefruit

  • sweet potatoes

  • sweet onions

Now you may be wondering why some products are more prone to having high quantities of pesticides than others.

Well, according to Richard Wiles, senior vice president of policy for the Environmental Working Group, certain foods will have an outer defense (think pineapples' outer layers vs strawberries) that will aid in keeping pesticides off the interior.

What benefits will you get from eating organic? Why should you care?

Organic produce refers to foods prepared according to norms set by an organic certifying body. It should be prepared and processed without using any chemical fertilizers, pesticides, or chemical preservatives.

Some benefits associated with eating organic, over conventional food are

  • enhances immune system

  • promotes animal welfare

  • reduces the presence of pesticides

  • prevents cancer and premature aging

Now, no research can be 100% conclusive on all associated benefits of organic food - but here at Betr we definitely recommend it! Clients who eat organically will experience feelings of wellness!

Finally, How Do you know if Something is Organic?

Look for the organic logo on the packet! Make sure not solely rely on the word "organic" on produce. Always try to learn where your food is coming from and become aware of what you are putting in your body.

We hope this article has helped you make smarter decisions regarding food purchases- and saved you a few dollars!

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