3 types of vegetables that are “soaked” in pesticides—don’t buy them just because they look fresh and green at the market.
Spinach
Spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable, high in fiber and antioxidants, making it a common addition to healthy meals. However, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), spinach contains far more pesticide residues by weight than many other vegetables.
In 2016, the U.S. Department of Agriculture analyzed 642 samples of conventionally grown spinach and found that each sample contained about 7 types of pesticides. Some samples even showed up to 19 different pesticides.
Notably, 76% of spinach samples contained permethrin, a neurotoxic pesticide. This substance has been banned for use on food crops in Europe since 2000.
At high doses, permethrin can overload the nervous system, causing tremors and seizures. Some studies suggest that even at low doses, this pesticide is linked to neurological issues in children.
In addition, spinach has been shown to contain fungicides and other dangerous pesticide residues that may cause cancer.
Cruciferous Vegetables: Kale, Collard Greens, and Mustard Greens
Leafy green vegetables like kale, collard greens, and mustard greens are nutrient-dense superfoods, packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These vegetables are delicious and appear in many family meals. However, they may also be among the highest in pesticide residues.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, nearly 60% of kale samples sold in the U.S. contain pesticide residues that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies as potentially carcinogenic.
More than 35% of collard greens and mustard greens samples have been found to contain Dacthal, a substance classified as “likely carcinogenic” since 1995.
Snap Beans
Snap beans are flavorful and popular. However, they have been ranked as one of the vegetables containing the most pesticides in 2024.
The Environmental Working Group has found that snap beans contain two highly toxic pesticides, acephate or methamidophos, which harm the nervous system. Remarkably, some samples have shown acephate levels exceeding 500 times the limit set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Additionally, some studied snap bean samples contained 94 different types of pesticides. Some common pesticides found on snap beans, such as bifenthrin and carbendazim, have been classified as carcinogens.