Dirty Dozen

As I've mentioned before, we stay away from pesticides and buy organic fruits and veggies.  It seems to make a difference in how many fruits Ben can handle.  But did you know that not all your produce needs to be organic?  There are some things you ALWAYS want to buy organic, and other things that aren't worth paying organic prices for. 

I found an app for my iPhone that lists the Dirty Dozen - foods you always want to buy organic.  The app is put out by the Environmental Working Group and I find it very handy when I'm in the grocery store.  For your use, here is the list:

The Dirty Dozen (ALWAYS buy organic):

1. Apples
2. Celery
3. Strawberries
4. Peaches
5. Spinach
6. Nectarines
7. Grapes
8. Sweet Bell Peppers
9. Potatoes
10. Blueberries
11. Lettuce
12. Kale/Collard Greens

The Clean 15 (No need to buy organic):

1. Onions
2. Corn
3. Pineapple
4. Avocado
5. Asparagus
6. Peas
7. Mango
8. Eggplant
9. Cantaloupe
10. Kiwi Fruit
11. Cabbage
12. Watermelon
13. Sweet Potatoes
14. Grapefruit
15. Mushrooms

Everything else falls somewhere between the two and you have to be the judge about whether or not it warrants buying organic. 

Also, do not think that roadside stands or farmers markets mean organic.  Unless it is marked with an organic label you can not trust that the growers kept the crops free of pesticides.  Typically, if you call and ask about their produce they will tell you the truth. 

Or you can grow your own!  Now that we have sunshine our garden is flourishing.  Can't wait for our own homegrown strawberries.