Pesticides are bad for the environment and bad for us. Research shows that pesticides can cause a variety of health problems, ranging from relatively minor skin irritation to chronic conditions affecting the nervous and reproductive systems, and many types of cancers. The World Health Organization estimates that about 3 million farm workers experience severe pesticide poisoning every year, resulting in an average of 18,000 pesticide related deaths annually.
It's not just farm workers who are at risk, though. These pesticides leave toxic residues on foods and, if consumed, can build up in your body over time and lead to long-term health effects. Some foods contain more pesticides than others, which is why your friends at 4th Generation Organic Market have put together this list of the top ten foods to avoid (or buy organic instead) as well as nutritionally equivalent substitutions:
- Apples
Alternatives: Bananas, nectarines, watermelon
- Celery
Alternatives: Carrots, broccoli, radishes, romaine lettuce
- Strawberries
Alternatives: raspberries, blackberries, kiwifruit
- Peaches
Alternatives: Watermelon, tangerines, oranges, grapefruits
- Spinach
Alternatives: Brussels sprouts, asparagus, broccoli
- Nectarines
Alternatives: Watermelon, oranges, tangerines
- Sweet Bell Peppers
Alternatives: Broccoli, green peas, lettuce
- Blueberries
Alternatives: Pomegranates, raspberries, blackberries
- Cherries
Alternatives: Raspberries, blackberries, kiwifruit, oranges
- Kale
Alternatives: Swiss chard, beet greens
By choosing organic foods, you're ensuring the health of your family by avoiding toxic pesticide residues. For more information on the most pesticide laden foods, check out the Environmental Working Group's Shopper's Guide to Pesticides. At 4th Generation, we believe that informed consumers are happier, healthier customers. |
