(UNDATED) - 98 percent of the 700 apples tested by the U.S. Department of Agriculture showed pesticide residue, even after rinsing in cold water for 10 minutes.
Every year the USDA tests a wide range of fruits and vegetables and finds dozens of pesticides.
The vast majority are legally approved and found in amounts deemed safe by the government.
And yet the Environmental Working Group, a Washington, D.C.-based consumer-advocacy group, has concerns. The group's annual Shopper's Guide features the "Dirty Dozen" list of the most pesticide-laden foods. Apples are right at the top, up three notches from last year's list, when celery was No. 1. Celery is second this year, and strawberries third.
The agriculture industry is concerned because the list only says that pesticides were found, but not how much or how far those levels are beneath the standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency.
The Environmental Working Group says people shouldn't stop eating fresh fruits and veggies, because their proven benefits outweigh the dangers of pesticides.
3. Strawberries- domestic
6. Nectarines- imported
7. Grapes- imported
8. Sweet bell peppers
10. Blueberries- domestic
12. Kale/collard greens
The Clean 15 Lowest in Pesticides
2. Sweet Corn
6. Sweet Peas
9. Cantaloupe- domestic
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