If you’ve ever stood in the produce aisle wondering whether it’s worth paying extra for organic, you’re not alone. At Amethyst Wellness, we believe in making informed choices that support your health—without overwhelming your budget. The good news? You don’t have to buy everything organic. You just need to know when it matters most.
Why Choose Organic?
Organic produce is grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). For many, choosing organic is a way to reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, support gut health, and minimize the body’s toxic burden over time.
But organic options can be pricey—so how do you prioritize?
The Dirty Dozen: Buy Organic When It Matters Most
Each year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) publishes a list of fruits and vegetables with the highest pesticide residues. These are the ones to buy organic whenever possible:
2024 Dirty Dozen
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Kale, collard & mustard greens
- Grapes
- Peaches
- Pears
- Nectarines
- Apples
- Bell & hot peppers
- Cherries
- Blueberries
- Green beans
These fruits and vegetables are often eaten raw and have thin skins or no protective peel, which makes them more vulnerable to absorbing pesticides.
The Clean Fifteen: Safe to Buy Conventional
The EWG also lists produce with the lowest pesticide levels. These are generally considered safe to buy non-organic:
2024 Clean Fifteen
- Avocados
- Sweet corn
- Pineapple
- Onions
- Papaya
- Sweet peas (frozen)
- Asparagus
- Honeydew melon
- Kiwi
- Cabbage
- Watermelon
- Mushrooms
- Mangoes
- Sweet potatoes
- Carrots
These typically have thick skins or are peeled before eating, limiting your exposure.
Pro Tip: Wash It Right
Whether organic or not, always wash your produce thoroughly. A simple vinegar and water soak can help remove surface residue and dirt.
Bottom Line:
Shopping organic doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Focus on the Dirty Dozen when you can, and feel good about saving on the Clean Fifteen. At Amethyst Wellness, we encourage small, sustainable steps toward healthier living—and this is one change that adds up over time.
Want to learn more about decreasing toxin exposure? Check out the Energize and Revitalize with Dr. Amy Podcast Ep. 004 Clean Living Made Simple with Anita Calandra-May.