Apples have risen to the top of the Dirty Dozen list, with an estimated 98% of apples tested having pesticide residue according to the Environmental Working Group researchers. Data from the USDA and the FDA from years 2000-2009 were analyzed.

The Dirty Dozen list is a yearly survey compiled by the USDA and represents produce with the highest pesticide burden. This year’s list includes apples, celery, strawberries, peaches, spinach, blueberries, imported grapes and nectarines, sweet bell peppers, potatoes, lettuce, and kale.

Also of note this year is that 44% of the cilantro tested held 33 unapproved pesticides, making it the highest percentage of unapproved pesticides since 1995.

The Clean 15 list includes this year for the first time green onions, mushrooms, and cranberries. The Clean 15 list is a contrasting survey that indicates the produce with the cleanest burdens of pesticides.

For more information about this study please visit http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/228313.php.