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A recent study reveals that consuming fruits and vegetables with high pesticide levels can lead to increased pesticide levels in urine. Conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), the study compared pesticide amounts on produce with those found in people, as stated by lead author Alexis Temkin, EWG's vice president of science. The study supports the EWG's annual "Dirty Dozen" list, which highlights produce with the highest pesticide residues.
The research, published in the International Journal of Hygiene and Environmental Health, utilized data from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) and urine samples from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The study found consistency between USDA pesticide levels on produce and those in human urine. According to CNN, Linda Birnbaum, former director of the National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences, noted the study's comprehensive approach to measuring pesticide toxicity.
The 2025 EWG Shopper’s Guide identified spinach, strawberries, and kale as top offenders, with spinach having the highest pesticide residue by weight. Food & Wine reported that the guide also lists the "Clean Fifteen," produce with the least pesticide residue, including pineapple and sweet corn.
Pesticides have been linked to various health issues, such as cancer and developmental problems in children. The EWG suggests choosing organic options from the Dirty Dozen list or thoroughly washing produce to reduce exposure. Despite the study's findings, CropLife America, representing pesticide producers, maintains that the US Environmental Protection Agency evaluates pesticide risks comprehensively.