THE DIRTY DOZEN

What? These are the dozen fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide levels:

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

If you can't buy all organic, at least try to buy the above vegetables organically grown. Certain pesticides are found on the surface of foods, but others are taken into the roots of the plant, and cannot be removed. A solution of equal parts vinegar and water will help to remove some residue. I personally like Veggie Wash made by Beaumont Products, purchased at my local grocery store.