2026 Dirty Dozen: Fruits & Veggies with Highest Pesticide Residue + PFAS Concerns

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has released its annual “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen” lists, ranking produce based on pesticide residue levels to help consumers make informed choices. This year’s report also highlights the increasing presence of pesticides containing PFAS – per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, often called “forever chemicals” – in our food supply, a relatively modern area of concern for both researchers and shoppers.

The EWG’s Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce analyzes data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), examining over 54,000 produce samples after they’ve been washed, scrubbed, or peeled. The goal is to identify which fruits and vegetables tend to retain the highest levels of pesticide residue, and conversely, which have the least.

What Made the 2026 Dirty Dozen List?

While the core of the “Dirty Dozen” remains consistent with previous years – leafy greens and soft-skinned fruits are frequent offenders – two items were newly added to the list in 2026: green beans and bell and hot peppers. These registered high levels of pesticide toxicity in the EWG’s analysis.

1. Spinach
2. Kale, collard, and mustard greens
3. Strawberries
4. Grapes
5. Nectarines
6. Peaches
7. Cherries
8. Apples
9. Blackberries
10. Pears
11. Potatoes
12. Blueberries
13. Green beans
14. Bell and hot peppers

The report found pesticides on 96 percent of the Dirty Dozen samples, even after washing. This underscores the persistence of these residues and the potential for exposure even with standard cleaning practices.

The 2026 Clean Fifteen: Produce with Minimal Residue

On the other side of the spectrum, the “Clean Fifteen” lists fruits and vegetables that consistently show little to no detectable pesticide residues. This list also remains largely unchanged from the previous year, reflecting inherent protective qualities in these items.

1. Pineapple
2. Sweet corn (fresh and frozen)
3. Avocados
4. Papaya
5. Onions
6. Sweet peas (frozen)
7. Asparagus
8. Cabbage
9. Cauliflower
10. Watermelon
11. Mangoes
12. Bananas
13. Carrots
14. Mushrooms
15. Kiwi

Nearly 60 percent of samples in the Clean Fifteen group had no detectable pesticide residues, and only 16 percent showed residues of two or more pesticides. A key factor, as explained by Dr. Linda G. Kahn, an assistant professor of population health at the NYU Grossman School of Medicine, is the natural protection offered by peels and husks. Dr. Kahn notes that the edible portion of these fruits and vegetables is often better shielded from pesticide exposure.

PFAS Pesticides: An Emerging Concern

A significant development in the 2026 report is the attention given to PFAS pesticides. These man-made chemicals are known for their persistence in the environment and potential to accumulate in food and water. The EWG’s inclusion of these compounds marks a broadening of the scope of pesticide analysis and a response to growing concerns about “forever chemicals” in the food supply. The Environmental Working Group has been tracking PFAS for years, highlighting their presence in the blood of nearly all Americans.

More than a third of the produce samples analyzed contained at least one PFAS pesticide. Some of the most commonly detected pesticides fell into this category. These chemicals are added to pesticides to enhance their stability and effectiveness, but that same stability prevents them from breaking down easily in the environment. They can linger in soil and water, potentially moving through the food chain and accumulating over time. Some PFAS pesticides can even degrade into smaller PFAS compounds, like trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), which are also highly persistent.

Dr. Luz Claudio, a professor of environmental medicine at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, points out that the terminology surrounding PFAS residues in food is still evolving. The EPA maintains that approved PFAS pesticides are not considered “forever” chemicals, but the long-term effects of exposure remain under investigation.

Understanding the Risks and Limitations of the EWG’s Methodology

It’s important to note that the Alliance for Food and Farming, representing both conventional and organic farmers, has criticized the EWG’s methodology, arguing that it overstates the real-world risk of pesticide exposure. They point out that USDA data shows over 99 percent of produce samples fall below EPA safety limits, and over 40 percent have no detectable residues at all. The group emphasizes that “detectable residue” does not automatically equate to a health risk. As reported by USA Today, the EWG’s methodology has faced scrutiny in previous years.

Dr. Claudio echoes this sentiment, stressing that all produce should be washed before consumption. The EWG’s list is intended to inform consumers about when they might consider choosing organic options, not to discourage fruit and vegetable consumption altogether.

Why Fruits and Vegetables Remain Essential

Despite the presence of pesticide residues, both Dr. Kahn and Dr. Claudio emphasize the overwhelming health benefits of eating fruits and vegetables. Many of the items on the “Dirty Dozen” list are nutritional powerhouses, rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Spinach and kale are excellent sources of folate, while blueberries and blackberries are packed with antioxidants.

Skipping these foods due to pesticide concerns would be counterproductive. The health benefits far outweigh the potential risks. Choosing organic options when feasible can help reduce exposure, but thorough washing is always recommended, even for organic produce.

What’s Next: Ongoing Research and Guidance Updates

The focus on PFAS pesticides in this year’s report highlights the need for continued research into their presence in the food supply and their potential health effects. Scientists are working to understand the significance of dietary exposure to PFAS compared to other sources, such as contaminated drinking water. The EPA is also actively evaluating the use of PFAS pesticides and may revise regulations based on emerging scientific evidence. The EWG plans to continue monitoring PFAS levels in produce and updating its Shopper’s Guide accordingly. Consumers can stay informed by checking for updates from the EWG and official public health agencies.

the EWG’s “Dirty Dozen” and “Clean Fifteen” lists serve as a valuable resource for consumers seeking to make informed choices about their produce purchases. Although, it’s crucial to interpret the information within the context of ongoing research, evolving regulations, and the overwhelming benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.