Produce way up where I live is expensive enough without the extra premium of organic. That’s not to say I won’t pay it; I do. But if I can get reasonably clean produce without paying that premium, I’d prefer to use my money other ways.
According to the Environmental Working Group in the States (a great resource for folks interested in the environment and everyday lifestyle choices), the following items are pretty clean of pesticides:
- Onions
- Sweet corn
- Pineapples
- Avocado (I’ve blown a month’s salary on this over the years!)
- Cabbage
- Sweet peas
- Asparagus
- Mangoes
- Eggplant
- Kiwi
- Canteloupe
- Sweet potatoes (presumably as distinct from yams)
- Grapefruit
- Watermelon
- Mushrooms
On the other hand, Kale and Green Beans are of special concern, so spend your money there.
