Conventionally grown produce are laden with residue from dozens of different chemical pesticides and may be genetically modified. Using a fruit and vegetable spray like Veggie Wash can help in removing pesticide residues, wax, and bacteria. These sprays are based on citrus or other natural cleansers that are not harmful if swallowed. Also if you buy packaged lettuce or spinach and it says it's "pre-washed", don't skip washing it yourself. They're sometimes not washed thoroughly enough at the source.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR	WHAT TO AVOID
Certified organic on the label “All Natural” is the next best option to organic Other indicators of a high quality product include “wild grown”, “raw”, “whole …”, “sprouted …”, "heirloom", “locally grown” (for freshness) Frozen fruits and vegetables are okay "Unfiltered" fruit juices Veggie Wash	Conventionally grown produce with a high pesticide load Bleached flour in bread, packaged goods Conventionally grown produce known to have a high U.S. genetically modified crop yield such as corn, soy, and canola Cashews (spikes blood sugar)

The chart below is the result of a study done by EWG (an independent environmental research organization). It lists some common conventionally grown fruits and vegetables and their pesticide load after washing and peeling. Of course, the best option would be to purchase organically grown produce. But if you’re trying to save a little money, consider buying the organic counterpart for the top 12 items listed (also known as the “dirty dozen”).

The Full List: 51 Fruits & Veggies

RANK	FRUIT/ VEGETABLE
1 (Best)	Sweet Corn
2	Onions
3	Pineapples
4	Avocados
5	Cabbage
6	Sweet Peas (Frozen)
7	Papayas
8	Mangos
9	Asparagus
10	Eggplant
11	Kiwi
12	Grapefruit
13	Cantaloupe
14	Sweet Potatoes
15	Mushrooms
16	Watermelon
17	Bananas
18	Cauliflower
19	Honeydew Melon
20	Tomatoes
21	Oranges
22	Snap peas (Domestic)
23	Green Onions
24	Winter Squash
25	Broccoli
26	Summer Squash
27	Tangerines
28	Green Beans
29	Carrots
30	Blueberries (Imported)
31	Raspberries
32	Plums
33	Pears
34	Nectarines (Domestic)
35	Cherries
36	Kale / Collard Greens
37	Snap peas (Imported)
38	Lettuce
39	Blueberries (Domestic)
40	Hot Peppers
41	Cherry Tomatoes
42	Potatoes
43	Cucumbers
44	Nectarines (Imported)
45	Sweet Bell Peppers
46	Spinach
47	Peaches
48	Celery
49	Grapes
50	Strawberries
51 (Worst)	Apples

Source: Copyright © Environmental Working Group, www.ewg.org. Reprinted with permission.