I first began to focus more on eating organic when I found out I was pregnant. The research connecting increased toxins in our environment to birth defects and disease was just too staggering to ignore. And this was even before Environmental Working Group published their 2005 report on the over 287 chemicals found in an average newborn baby. So I have long followed the work of EWG and tonight, President Ken Cook gave a presentation at Spring (a standout among the many eco-chic shops popping up regularly now). Founded in 1993, EWG  has a tremendous history of publishing research that shocks the heck out of you. Even if you have not heard of them, chances are you’ve heard about their work. In October of 2006 they released the Dirty Dozen and Clean Dozen Shoppers Guide, a reference for reducing pesticide exposure by amost 90%. Based on nearly 43,000 tests for pesticides on produce by the FDA and the Department of Agriculture, their analysis found that "eating the 12 most
contaminated fruits and vegetables will expose a person to about 15
pesticides a day, on average. Eating the 12 least contaminated will
expose a person to fewer than two pesticides a day." EWG does a phenomenal job of balancing terrifying statistics - the last toxic substances control act was passed in 1976 and over 62,000 chemicals were grandfathered in - with empowering and exciting news. In 2008 the House and Senate will be putting forth the Kid Safe Chemical Act. Europe has already banned thousands of the chemicals still allowed in our cosmetics, toys, furniture etc. so perhaps with voices such as yours, legislation such as this will soon make our world a little bit healthier place to be. As Ken pointed out, where you put your dollars is a huge first step. The next step is government action. I remain optimistic. So tomorrow, print out the Food Guide  and next year, vote for folks who will get bills like this passed. For now, here’s a quick peek at the 12 produce items with the highest and lowest pesticide load.

Worst (make sure you buy organic):
Peaches, Apples, Sweet Bell Peppers, Celery,Nectarines, Strawberries, Cherries, Lettuce, Grapes (imported), Pears, Spinach and Potatoes.

Best (not so bad if you can’t go organic):
Onions, Avocado, Sweet Corn (frozen), Pineapples, Mango, Sweet Peas (frozen), Asparagus, Kiwi, Bananas, Cabbage, Broccoli, Eggplant.