Last year, media attention on the so-called “Dirty Dozen” list was at its lowest point since the pandemic.  Interest on social media declined as well.  It seems after 30 years since the list was launched, the “Dirty Dozen” has run its course with most people understanding that the list recommendations cannot be substantiated through science or in practice.

Even the list authors contradict their own “Dirty Dozen” list statements and call conventionally grown fruits and vegetables “Best Foods” in their Food Scores report.

The authors also readily admit that their list does not assess risk nor do they apply basic tenets of toxicology in the development of their list. From Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) previous “Dirty Dozen” report: “The Shoppers Guide does not incorporate risk assessment into the calculations.  All pesticides are weighted equally, and we do not factor in the levels deemed acceptable by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency).”

The lack of science in the “Dirty Dozen” list was further substantiated in peer reviewed research which found that substitutions of organic forms of produce for conventional forms do not result in any decrease in consumer risk because residue levels are so low, if present at all.  This study also verified what the Environmental Working Group said themselves – that the development of this list does not follow any established scientific methodology.

And their statements about the list being a cost effective way for consumers to shop for fruits and vegetables don’t stand up either.  In our analysis, when we followed the “Dirty Dozen” list recommendations, our produce costs increased by 48%.

Unsubstantiated claims, contradictory statements and their own written words all coalesce for many, which is why attention on the list has diminished over the years.

So why does the Alliance for Food and Farming (AFF) keep working to counter EWG’s inaccurate list?  Because some still believe EWG.  Because peer reviewed studies and consumer surveys show their messaging has left a legacy of unwarranted fear leading to some avoiding safe and healthy fruits and vegetables. And no parent should feel hesitant to purchase the produce they can afford because of the EWG.

Our final reason our work continues:  According to the Centers for Disease Control, only one in 10 Americans eat enough nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables each day.  And, if half of Americans increased their consumption of fruits and vegetables by a single serving a day, 20,000 cancer cases could be prevented annually.  And, that study analyzed consumption of conventionally grown fruits and veggies.  That’s the power of produce.

(Reminder:  If a “report” has a “Donate” button on every page, it probably isn’t about promoting or protecting public health.)