“Non-organic food production makes wide use of pesticides which can pollute water, the environment and make their way into our food chain. In 2015, over 17,800 tonnes of pesticideswere used on British farms to kill weeds, insects and control crop diseases.” – Soil Association
No.1
Strawberries.
These delicious green and red bites of heaven are actually THE most contaminated fruit in terms of pesticides. Farmers use roughly 140kgs of the stuff on each acre. So in each square mile of strawberry fields, there is 90 tonnes of pesticides. That’s 90,000kg.
This fruit is number one on the list for a reason. If you are looking for something to transition into organic eating, start with strawberries.
FYI.. organic food is so much tastier. If you love strawberries you are going to fall over with happiness when you taste organic strawberries for the first time! [you’re welcome]
No.2
Potatoes.
Potatoes also top the list. White potatoes came in as the number one most contaminated produce in 2015. Suggesting that, on average and by weight, potatoes had the highest concentration of pesticides.
Considering how many potato products we consume each and every day in the UK, this is another no brainer when it comes to making the swap. Our research suggests if you are making the change, organic potatoes will set you back approximately £1/kg which isn’t all that expensive. For some perspective, people are spending more than this on supermarkets superficial ‘special’ ranges.
If you are willing to commit to more than one swap to organic produce, some supermarkets offer 3 for 2 on organic purchases.
The only roast potato recipe you’ll ever need.
No.3
Apples.
Growing up in the rich hills of cider county, Somerset, apples were a common site. My grandfather, to this day still maintains a small family orchard in our home town. Apples are great for those who have access to traditional orchards. BTW – Apple sauce makes a great egg replacement in certain recipes.
99% of all apples tested, contained traces at least one pesticide residue.
You will notice the difference in the overall taste and quality of these organic fruits, apples are no exception. Finding a local orchard will save you some big bucks compared to shopping at the supermarkets – and they have THE best cider.
No.4
Peaches.
A common favourite amongst many households, peaches can be almost as bad as apples, testing at 98% containing traces of pesticide residue.
For me, fruits like peaches seem a bit of a treat. So when making a peachy purchase, maybe splash a little extra and appreciate the healthy elements of an organic punnet.
No.5
Nectarines.
Genetically speaking they are practically just smooth skinned peaches. The main difference between the two is the skin, with peaches having fuzz on theirs.
Nectarines had a very similar score to that of peaches, with 97% of those tested showing traces of at least one pesticide residue.
No.6
Grapes.
If you have never tasted an organic grape, my word you are in for an awakening. My parents are very much your average supermarket shoppers, by which I mean they stick to what they know and are drawn in by offers.
This being said, they once came across some reduced Organic, white and seedless grapes which happened to be on a great offer so thought they would bite the bullet and give organic a go. They were so amazed by how sweet and pure they tasted. To this day, they will only buy grapes that are organic.
Non-organic grapes tested positive for traces of up to 15 different pesticides.
Coming Soon: The best organic and vegan wine under £10 a bottle.
No.7
Spinach.
Not only spinach – kale and lettuce too. Leafy greens have been reported with traces of up to 60 different pesticides and chemicals.
Spinach is naturally high in both niacin and zinc. It also contains vitamins A, C, E and K as well as vitamin B6, iron, folate, calcium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium!! Basically, spinach is awesome!
Spinach is great for your body; why not treat it just as well and support organic production methods.
No.8
Peppers.
Studies from America have shown up to 53 pesticide traces found on non-organic peppers, 3 of which are known or probable carcinogens.
No.9
Cucumber.
This is another important organic swap out. Cucumbers are not that expensive and have many great health benefits. There are multiple uses and have a great shelf life at home.
According to one American study, cucumbers have been found with traces of up to 86 pesticides, 10 of which are known or probable carcinogens.
One of our favourite uses is in the creation of cucumber water which is an excellent detox drink to keep in your fridge.
No.10
Cherry Tomatoes.
One of our favourite recipes is that of a traditional tomato sauce, we would normally only use plum tomatoes as they are richer and have a thicker skin. But in times of trouble, we may opt to use cherry tomatoes. They usually have a higher water content so we dry cook them to reduce this.
It might not be mama’s secret sauce, but this is The Tastiest Tomato Sauce You’ll Ever Find
Cherry tomatoes have been found with traces of up to 69 different pesticide residues, 2 of which are known or probable carcinogens.
No.11
Blueberries.
This delicious summer fruit has been found with traces of up to 50 different pesticides and is a must swap to organic.
Non-organic blueberries range in price from £6.90/kg to £9.80/kg. Where as organic blueberries can be found anywhere from £12.60/kg to £20/kg.
Organic produce does tend to float around double the price of non-organic. This being said, you can find cheaper organic produce from your local markets as well as deals to be found at your local supermarket from time-to-time.
No.12
Coffee.
It is the third most sprayed agricultural crop in the world, beaten to the top only by cotton and tobacco. When the coffee is roasted, it reduces the pesticide residue by approximately 85%. If this is something you consume on a daily basis then you really should consider swapping to organic coffee.
Vegan Life & Living 