As a grandmother, it’s concerning to learn that blackberries and strawberries, favorite snacks of my infant grandson, are listed in the ‘Dirty Dozen’ as some of the most pesticide-laden produce grown in the United States. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has produced the annual Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce since 2004, and the 2026 list includes cherries, apples, pears, grapes, peaches, nectarines, and leafy greens like kale and spinach.

Pesticide Concerns

The EWG ratings are calculated from testing done by the US Department of Agriculture. Most pesticide levels found by the USDA fall below benchmark levels set by the US Environmental Agency. However, critics, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, say those levels are too high and fail to address the health impact of long-term, cumulative exposure to multiple pesticides.

Pesticide exposure during pregnancy may lead to an increased risk of birth defects, low birth weight, and fetal death. Exposure in childhood has been linked to attention and learning problems, as well as cancer. Studies show pesticides are also associated with lower sperm concentrations, heart disease, cancer, and an increase in genetic damage in humans.

Washing Berries

While some pesticides can be washed off, others are absorbed into the plant and cannot be removed. To reduce pesticide levels, the EWG recommends washing berries with a mixture of water and baking soda or vinegar. A short soak in 1 teaspoon of baking soda per 2 cups of water can reduce pesticide levels by about 50%.

For berries, a 1-2 minute soak is recommended, followed by a thorough rinse with cool water and immediate drying. This method can help reduce pesticide levels, but it’s essential to note that some pesticides, like those found in blueberries, are systemic and cannot be washed off.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.