Maybe it's my natural inclination to get my back up whenever I feel someone is trying to tell me what to do. Or possibly, it's that I bristle at what I feel is a "starbucks-ization" of the "organic lifestyle" by organizations such as Planet Organic and Whole Foods (I mean, come on - organic mangoes? Sheesh, since when is flying a fruit halfway around the world sustainable? Oh that's right, Mr. Planet Organic, you don't do it because it's sustainable, you do it so you can charge someone 7 dollars for it.) I just don't seem to be able to force myself to jump on the "I have to buy everything organic" bandwagon. Besides, since I decided to stay at home with the kiddos, it's not like we are exactly rolling in cash. So here I've reproduced for you the "Dirty Dozen" fresh foods that are highest in pesticide use (taken from Dr. Andrew Weil's book, 8 Weeks to Optimum Health). Choosing to buy organic brands of these 12 most contaminated foods can cut your pesticide consumption in half:
Apples
Strawberries
Spinach
Peaches
Grapes
Red & Green Bell Peppers
Cantaloupes
Cherries
Celery
Apricots
Green Beans
Cucumbers
There are a number of other, non-produce items that ought to go on the list: especially oats, and (especially if you live or shop in the States) meat & dairy.
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