In an ideal world we’d buy everything organic. Sometimes, due to budget or availability, that is not possible. Certain items have more pesticide residue, so it can be helpful to focus on buying those organic, and buying the cleaner ones conventional. Some produce test higher than others due to a variety of factors: whether the item has a thick or thin skin to protect it, how often it’s sprayed, and the last time it was sprayed before going to the store.  
 
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) tested 47 vegetables and fruit for levels of pesticide. To see the full list go to EWG’s 2020 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™ here. I’ll highlight the 12 with the highest pesticide (Dirty 12™) and the 15 with the lowest (Clean 15™) below. 
 
If you’re new to organic produce, focus on any items on the Dirty 12™ list you or your family consumes frequently, especially young kids as they are more susceptible to the negative effects of pesticides. Make those your first priority to switch to organic. Then focus on others on the list, and if your budget allows, buy everything you can organic. Some sweet corn, papaya and summer squash sold in the US are grown from genetically modified seeds. If you want to avoid GMOs, buy these organic also. 

Going organic can be a challenge when you’re on a budget, but there are ways to make the transition easier. If you’re looking to reduce the expense of buying organic here are a few ideas:

▶ Buy whatever organic is on sale that you’ll use
▶ Sway the dirties offenders first
▶ Use organic frozen produce whenever possible & stock up when it’s on sale
▶ Begin growing your favorite or the dirtiest offenders at home 

What ways do you make eating organic more affordable? Share in the comments below!