What is “Organic”?
We hear the word all the time, but what is “Organic”??
Basically, for a food to be labeled “Organic”, there are very strict requirements of the growing and harvesting process. An “Organic” fruit or vegetable must be grown in an environment free from many pesticides, controversial fertilizers, chemicals, & scientific engineering that could affect our health.
Why eat “Organic”?
- Organic can be important for growing families! Studies are showing that “Organic” foods have the greatest health effect for pregnant women & children.
- By eating Organic, you put fewer pesticides in your body.
- Organic foods help reduce pollution and pesticide residue in food and water.
- Organic foods can help build healthy soil and promote a more sustainable food system.
However, many people DO NOT buy “Organic” because of the higher cost. An entire grocery cart full of organic produce adds up! But we have GOOD NEWS for you! WIC offers Organic fruits and veggies! AND by buying just 12 fruits and veggies “Organic” you can greatly reduce your families’ pesticide intake!
Dirty Dozen:
The “Dirty Dozen” is a list of 12 fruits and veggies that contain the most amount of pesticide residue. These are the fruits and veggies that are better to buy “Organic”.
The Dirty Dozen
(The foods most effective in buying “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
Clean Fifteen:
The “Clean Fifteen” is a list of 15 fruits and veggies that are considered to have the least amount of pesticide residue. Basically, these 15 foods you don’t need to buy “Organic”.
The Clean Fifteen
(The foods that have the least amount of pesticides and are consider ok to buy not-“Organic”)
1.Onion
2.Avocado
3.Sweet Corn
4.Pineapple
5.Mango
6.Asparagus
7.Sweet Peas
8.Kiwi
9.Cabbage
10.Eggplant
11.Papaya
12.Watermelon
13.Broccoli
14.Tomato
15.Sweet Potato