12 Foods That May Contain More Pesticide Residues: How to Wash Them Properly

Fruits and vegetables are essential for good health, providing vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants. However, some conventionally grown produce may carry more pesticide residues than others. Knowing which foods appear on pesticide-residue monitoring lists and how to wash them properly can help consumers make informed choices.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a US-based environmental health organization, released its 2026 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce on March 24, 2026. Its annual Dirty Dozen list identifies 12 types of produce with relatively high pesticide-residue levels based on US Department of Agriculture testing data. The 2026 analysis examined 54,344 samples of 47 fruits and vegetables.

Appearing on this list does not mean a food is automatically unsafe to eat. The list is a consumer guide, not an official determination that these foods violate pesticide safety limits.

The 2026 EWG dirty dozen: 12 foods and how to wash them?

1. Spinach: Spinach leaves can trap soil and other particles because of their delicate, uneven surfaces.

How to wash? Separate the leaves, rinse them thoroughly under cool running water and gently rub each leaf. Drain using a clean colander or salad spinner.

2. Kale, collard greens and mustard greens: These leafy vegetables have textured surfaces where dirt and particles can accumulate.

How to wash? Separate the leaves and rinse them individually under running water, rubbing both sides gently. Remove damaged leaves and thick stems if desired.

3. Strawberries: Strawberries have small seeds and an uneven surface that can retain dirt and debris.

How to wash? Place strawberries in a clean colander and rinse gently under running water just before eating. Remove damaged berries and dry with a clean paper towel. Keep the stems on during washing to reduce water entering the fruit.

4. Grapes: Grapes grow in clusters, making it difficult to rinse every fruit thoroughly.

How to wash? Separate individual grapes or small clusters, rinse under running water and gently rub the skins. Drain well before eating.

5. Nectarines: Nectarines are commonly eaten with their skin, so cleaning the outer surface is important.

How to wash? Hold each fruit under running water and gently rub the entire surface with your fingers. Dry with a clean towel before cutting.

6. Peaches: Peaches have fuzzy skin that can collect dirt and other surface particles.

How to wash? Rinse under running water while gently rubbing the skin. Avoid harsh scrubbing that damages the fruit.

7. Cherries: Cherries have small surfaces around their stems where dirt may collect.

How to wash? Place cherries in a colander, rinse thoroughly under running water and drain. Remove the stems after washing if preferred.

8. Apples: Apples are often eaten with their skin, which contains beneficial fiber.

How to wash? Rinse each apple under running water while rubbing the skin with your hands. A clean produce brush can help clean firm surfaces.

9. Blackberries: Blackberries have many small drupelets and a delicate structure that can trap debris.

How to wash? Place them in a clean colander and rinse gently under running water. Avoid soaking for long periods or rubbing vigorously, as this may damage the fruit.

10. Pears: Pears are commonly eaten with their skin, making proper washing useful.

How to wash? Rinse thoroughly under running water and gently rub the entire surface, including around the stem. Dry with a clean towel.

11. Potatoes: Potatoes grow underground and may carry soil and residues on their skin.

How to wash? Rinse under running water and scrub with a clean vegetable brush. Remove soil from the eyes and crevices. Discard green, badly damaged or rotten portions; washing does not make spoiled potatoes safe.

12. Blueberries: Blueberries have a delicate skin and a small crown-like indentation at the top.

How to wash? Place blueberries in a colander and rinse gently under running water immediately before eating. Drain and pat dry carefully.

In India some of the vegetables that are flagged for high pesticide residues include: cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, peas, radish, carrot, beetroot, tomato, brinjal (eggplant), okra (bhindi), green chili, capsicum, and leafy greens. 

Does washing remove pesticide residues? Washing fruits and vegetables under running water can remove dirt, some surface pesticide residues and certain microorganisms. However, its effectiveness varies depending on the pesticide, the food and how the pesticide was applied. Residues absorbed into the plant tissue may not be removed by washing.

Follow these simple food-safety practices:

1. Wash your hands: Use soap and water before handling produce.
2. Use running water: Gently rub the surface rather than relying on a quick rinse alone.
3. Wash before peeling or cutting: This helps prevent contaminants on the skin from transferring to the edible portion.
4. Avoid household cleaners: Do not wash produce with dish soap, bleach or household detergents.
5. Dry properly: Use a clean cloth or paper towel to help remove surface moisture and remaining particles.

Is salt water, vinegar or baking soda better for produce washing?

Salt water, vinegar and baking soda are popular household methods for cleaning produce. Some studies suggest that certain washing solutions can reduce particular pesticide residues under specific conditions, but no household solution reliably removes all pesticide residues. For routine food preparation, experts recommend washing produce thoroughly under running water. Commercial produce washes are not recommended by the FDA.

Should you buy organic produce instead?

Organic produce is grown under different production standards and generally restricts the use of many synthetic pesticides, but organic foods are not necessarily pesticide-free. Conventional produce is also generally considered safe when it meets applicable food-safety standards.

If your budget permits, you may choose organic versions of foods on the Dirty Dozen list to reduce exposure to some pesticide residues. If organic produce is too expensive or unavailable, continue buying conventional fruits and vegetables and wash them properly.

Most importantly, do not stop eating fruits and vegetables because of concerns about pesticide residues. Their nutritional benefits are substantial, and eating a variety of produce is an important part of a healthy diet. A balanced approach is best – choose a variety of fruits and vegetables, wash them carefully, follow food-safety guidance and enjoy their health benefits.

Reference: https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php: Environmental Working Group, 2026 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce.

Image credit: Created using Ai Gemini on 12-10-2026