Because organic foods tend to be more expensive, it makes good sense to make some economic choices. Buy organic for foods that traditionally carry pesticide residues such as apples, potatoes, lettuce, bell peppers, spinach, strawberries, carrots, peaches and nectarines. Although these foods can be peeled, many nutrients and some fiber are lost in the process.
Apples absorb pesticides more than other fruits so if you can't choose organic, peel them or look for apples from New Zealand where fewer pesticides are used.
Organic baby food doesn't contain chemical residues and is best for their delicate systems.
Because cows eat grains cultivated with pesticides, the milk and butter produced from these cows, will have some residues.
Even though you don't eat the rind on cantaloupe, this fruit easily absorbs pesticides. I am trying to remember to wash cantaloupe before cutting to prevent contamination but it's a new concept.
Cucumbers can contain pesticide residues inside and also in the wax used for preservation, so always remove the skin.
Grapes are treated with multiple chemicals, especially grapes from Chile. Look for domestic grapes.
Strawberries are one of the most contaminated fruits. Eat local berries in season to limit your exposure.
Winter squash absorbs dieldrin into its flesh but Mexican squash is dieldrin-free because the soil is free from it.
When you buy local you will know what you are getting. Organic is a step is a healthy directions.
3 comments:
Thanks for the tips.
Really makes me think differently about the food I eat
Apples, grapes and strawberries are my personal choice for organic. Also dairy products because milk can contain pesticides absorbed from the cows' feed.
another reason to move to New Zealand!
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