The Dirty Dozen & Clean 15 Lists

I always have a full fruit bowl and crispers overflowing with vegetables. (That’s not surprising with my attitude about healthy eating and eliminating processed foods.) With two teenage boys always looking for a snack, I encourage the fruit bowl and crispers as great, “go-to” quickies!

However, with the large amount of produce I do buy, I am fully aware of the dangers caused by the pesticides use with fruits and vegetables. I would like to suggest always organic shopping, but this option is out of reach for many consumers, especially with the rising cost of food. Another option for shoppers is to pay close attention to the types of produce they buy.

For those of you who are not aware of the “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean 15” lists, I have provided them below. These lists are a great guide to help you shop and choose wisely. The “Dirty Dozen” list includes the more heavily sprayed produce. If you are choosing these more often, then it is best to look for organic options or find a local farmer and talk to them about their practices. The “Clean 15” list includes produce that have a thicker skin, which protects the flesh from chemicals seeping in. It also include those produce that have less pesticides used during the growing season.)

Make a mental note of the lists, or better yet, print off a copy for your purse and pull them out at the produce aisle. Happy chemical free shopping!

Connect with Lisa George, Registered Holistic Nutritionist – and take that first step. The first consultation is complimentary. Contact 613-256-0506 or e-mail lisac.george@gmail.com