“Dirty dozens” is a memorable phrase—but it can also be misleading. In discussions about drinking water, it is often used to describe a group of persistent chemicals that remain in…
Pesticides are designed to control weeds, insects, fungi and other organisms that threaten crops. That purpose does not make them harmless once they leave the field. Rainfall, irrigation and soil…
Glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world. It is applied in agriculture, on roadsides, in parks and gardens, and in many non-crop areas to control…
For shoppers in the UK, the phrase “the worst fruit and vegetables for pesticides” can sound alarming. Which foods carry the most residues? Should some produce be avoided? And does…
Fresh fruit is central to a healthy diet, but many people still hesitate before biting into an apple or eating a handful of grapes: how much pesticide residue is left…
Fresh fruit is an important part of a healthy diet, but many people still hesitate at the produce aisle: how much pesticide remains on an apple, strawberry or grape? Is…
For many people, pesticides are an invisible part of the food system. They help farmers protect crops from insects, weeds and fungal diseases, yet traces can remain on food when…
Few shopping lists attract as much attention as the Environmental Working Group’s “Dirty Dozen”. Each year, the list highlights fruits and vegetables found to carry the highest number or concentration…
The “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen” are familiar labels for shoppers trying to reduce exposure to pesticide residues. Each year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) ranks conventionally grown fruits and…
What does “the Dirty Dozen” mean in the PFAS debate? When people search for “the Dirty Dozen” and PFAS-free water, they are often referring to a group of highly persistent…