Dirty Dozen & Clean Fifteen

Have you ever heard of this list?

I don't know about you, but I don't buy everything organic - I don't think it's necessary, nor do I allow for that in our grocery budget.  But, I certainly prioritize according to this list.

Below, you will find the latest 2011 most up to date lists that I've found.

If you are going to buy organic, naturally grown fruits and veggies (or grow your own), focus on the Dirty Dozen.  These fruits and veggies have the highest level of chemicals that will affect your body.

Dirty Dozen:

1. Apples
2. Celery
3. Strawberries
4. Peaches
5. Spinach
6. Nectarines (imported)
7. Grapes (imported)
8. Sweet Bell Peppers
9. Potatoes
10. Blueberries (domestic)
11. Lettuce
12. Kale/Collard Greens 

The Clean Fifteen have the lowest levels of chemicals that will affect your body.  So, if you can't or won't buy all organic, naturally grown fruits and veggies - buy non organic from the Clean Fifteen list.

Clean Fifteen:

1. Onions
2. Sweet Corn
3. Pineapples
4. Avocado
5. Asparagus
6. Sweet Peas
7. Mangoes
8. Eggplant
9. Cantaloupe – domestic
10. Kiwi
11. Cabbage
12. Watermelon
13. Sweet Potatoes
14. Grapefruit
15. Mushrooms 

I keep a copy of this in my planner - that I take to the store with me - just in case I need to reference it while I'm shopping.

We believe that locally, naturally grown is the best choice for our family.  We really try to stock up from our garden and Farmer's Markets during our harvest season!  Our goal is to preserve enough to last us through the winter.  But... this life is a journey and we learn more each year.  We're getting better and better.  Baby steps.

Hope this helps!  :)