The Dirty Dozen

Ever since Leah has been able to eat solid foods, I have become SO aware and somewhat obsessed with what we are eating.  I WISH we didn't have to worry about where our food comes from, but we do. And for the most part, it is disgusting what is done to our food - the artificial ingredients, pesticides, long distance shipping, etc., and don't get me started about what is done to animals.  I love buying as much organic and local food as possible, but let's face it, sometimes it is way too expensive!  I thought I would take a minute to write out the list of foods that are best to eat organic and what we can save our money on. 

First, here is a definition of what organic means-

• Animals have not been treated with: antibiotics, growth hormones, or feed made from animal byproducts.
• Animals must have been fed organic feed for at least a year.
• Animals must have access to the outdoors.
• Food hasn't been genetically modified or irradiated.
• Fertilizer does not contain sewage sludge or synthetic ingredients.
• Produce hasn't been contaminated with synthetic chemicals used as pesticides.

Here is a list of the "Dirty Dozen", the foods that test the highest of pesticide residue.  

My goal will to be at least try to get the following foods organic! 

1. Apples

2. Celery

3. Strawberries

4. Peaches

5. Spinach

6. Nectarines

7. Grapes (and raisins!) (Hmmm, must be some wines too, right?)

8. Sweet bell peppers

9. Potatoes

10. Blueberries

11. Lettuce

12. Kale / Collard greens

A few more things to note -

* Milk  (This is an important one for our family. Organic and rbST free milk is a must. We get our milk delivered from a local dairy.  And FYI, Horizon milk is not actually organic for those of you that haven't heard!)

* Chocolate
* Coffee

 I have read that chocolate and coffee most often come from countries that aren't regulated so there is no way to know for sure the amount of pesticides used.

* Beef and poultry - Umm, just watch Food, Inc. :-P

Now, here are the "Clean 15" that test the most clean of pesticides, so are generally ok to buy not organic.

1. Onions
2. Sweet Corn
3. Pineapple
4. Avocado 
5. Asparagus
6. Sweet peas
7. Mango
8. Eggplant
9. Cantaloupe 
10. Kiwi
11. Cabbage
12. Watermelon
13. Sweet Potatoes
14. Grapefruit
15. Mushrooms

A few tips for buying organic - 

*Shop for produce that is actually in season! If you see cherries in the store in the winter, who knows where they come from or how they are being grown!!

*Look for local Farmer's Markets which is not only better for you and your wallet, but supports local businesses!

I hope everyone found this helpful!  Happy 'Clean' Eating!  :-)