Pesticides on Produce: New Report Flags the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen

The "Dirty Dozen" list highlights the 12 most pesticide-contaminated fruits and veggies, with strawberries, leafy greens, and grapes at the top. The "Clean Fifteen" has the least residues.

Pesticide exposure has been linked to health issues like cancer, hormone disruption, lower sperm counts, and neurodevelopmental problems in kids. Farmworkers face the highest risks.

About 70% of produce tested had pesticide levels within legal limits, but critics note those limits don't necessarily mean "safe." Banned pesticides still show up on some crops.

The report may discourage produce consumption, but experts emphasize eating fruits and veggies is vital, and conventional produce is still healthy. Organic has lower pesticide levels.

This year's report highlights high fungicide residues post-harvest. Two common fungicides may disrupt hormones and carry health risks, but are considered safe at low doses.