A study by the Swedish Environmental Research Institute suggested that pesticides toxins could be nearly entirely removed by an organic diet in two weeks. But, they also reported that "levels that we found in urine during the period of conventionally grown food are well within acceptable levels, which means that it is unlikely that a single substance would pose any risk to humans."
The Environmental Working Group tested over 50,000 samples of fruits and vegetables for levels of pesticides. From their results, they compiled two lists. One, the "Dirty Dozen," high in pesticides. And the other, the "Clean 15", low in pesticides. They believe that eating organic versions of the Dirty Dozen might reduce pesticides levels by up to 92 percent.
Dirty Dozen Apples
Celery
Strawberries
Peaches
Spinach
Nectarines (imported)
Grapes (imported)
Sweet bell peppers
Potatoes
Blueberries (domestic)
Lettuce
Kale/collard greens
Onions Kiwi
Sweet corn Cabbage
Pineapples Watermelon
Avocado Sweet potatoes
Asparagus Grapefruit
Sweet Peas Mushrooms
Mangoes Eggplant
Cantaloupe (domestic)
I believe there is a simple explanation for the difference between the two groups. The items in the first group are usually eaten with the outside skins. The skin is directly exposed to pesticides, whether applied or in the environment. The items in the second group have, except for asparagus and mushrooms, have an outside covering, which is usually peeled off prior to eating.
