EWG, a non-profit advocacy organization, has been publishing an annual "Agricultural Products Pollution Shopping Guide" for the past decade. This guide highlights the fruits and vegetables most contaminated with pesticides, based on data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The analysis involves testing 48 different types of produce, and approximately 65% of the samples tested showed pesticide residues.
In the latest ranking of the most pesticide-contaminated foods, grapes topped the list with 15 different pesticides detected, while strawberries, celery, cherry tomatoes, and imported beans each had 13 types of pesticides. On the flip side, the guide also recommends 15 relatively clean options that are safer to consume. These include items like sweet corn, onions, and avocados, which typically have lower levels of pesticide contamination.
Xiao Jian, director of the Haidian District Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute in Beijing, explained that certain fruits and vegetables, such as cherries and apricots, tend to have fewer pests due to their shorter growing cycles, which reduces the need for heavy pesticide use. Additionally, techniques like fruit bagging used for apples and pears can significantly cut down on pesticide exposure. Zhu Yi, an associate professor at China Agricultural University’s College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, added that the type of vegetable and its susceptibility to pests and diseases influence the level of pesticide residue. Leafy greens, for instance, often accumulate more pesticides due to their large surface area and short growth period.
The EWG guide emphasizes that while pesticide residues are a concern, people should not avoid eating fruits and vegetables altogether. Instead, it advises consumers to choose organic or green alternatives and prioritize the 15 cleaner options listed. According to Ken Cook, chairman of EWG, consuming five of these “clean†items daily can reduce pesticide absorption by up to 92%. Zhu Yi noted that organic produce is generally safer because it is subject to stricter regulations regarding pesticide use. For those who want to minimize risk, choosing organic options is a wise choice.
Proper cleaning methods can also help remove most of the pesticides. The key is to use friction during washing—rinsing under running water for at least 30 seconds is effective. Leafy vegetables should be rinsed multiple times. Adding a small amount of flour to the water and soaking for a short time before rubbing and rinsing can also help, but it's best to keep vegetables whole during this process to prevent pesticide infiltration. If concerns persist, peeling fruits like apples and pears can remove over 70% of pesticide residues. Eating around the core of an apple is also recommended, as the core area may trap more chemicals. Zhu Yi warned against using detergents for washing, as they can introduce additional chemical contaminants.
This article is a reprint from online media and reflects the author's views only. It does not necessarily represent the stance of the website. If you believe any content infringes on your rights, please contact us, and we will address it promptly.
Ai-Powered People Counter,Retail Store Traffic Counters,Increase Retail Conversion Rate,People Counting And Tracking
OP Retail (Suzhou) Technology Co., Ltd , https://www.opretailtech.com