Mary Ellen Camire, Ph.D., CFS, Fellow, Institute of Food Technologists, Professor of Food Science & Human Nutrition, School of Food & Agriculture at the University of Maine explains that many small local farms reduce the use of synthetic pesticides by applying similar practices, like using protective insects to help control for critters that are harmful or destructive. I’m in favor of organic farming practices and I’m encouraged that through advancements in understanding and technology, certain food production methods are being used outside of traditional organic farms. Food production is changing for the better in some cases The money-saving tips below can help you shop for organics. If the scientific explanation isn’t reassuring enough, and if you’re among populations that may be most vulnerable to pesticide exposure (such as pregnant women, couples trying to get pregnant and very young children), some added precautions might buy you some peace of mind. In other words, they were eating lots of fruits and vegetables on both sides of the aisle. ![]() And though it didn’t make headlines, he points out that women who consumed more high-pesticide residue produce were also more likely to eat organic produce. The researchers used a similar system of identifying pesticide residue as the EWG - a system that many scientists call into question because it doesn’t address actual amounts of chemicals detected. Though this may raise some red flags, Winter again takes a more scientific view. Still, it’s worrisome to read headlines raising concerns around pesticide risk, such as the recent study linking pesticide exposure with poorer pregnancy outcomes among women being treated for infertility. The shopper’s guide is meant to provide advice so that consumers who want to limit pesticide exposure can either choose varieties with low scores (their Clean 15 list) or substitute organic produce for foods that are listed on the Dirty Dozen. That means the results aren’t designed to provide information about the levels found, nor the significance of the exposure. Their analysis is not designed to offer specifics about the chemical present or dose. The EWG analyzes data on fruits and vegetables to quantify the chemical residue from pesticides, noting things like the average number of pesticides found on a single sample and the maximum number detected. But, as a health professional, I know how to put this information in perspective, and I’m hoping to help you do the same. I certainly don’t want to feed my son a pesticide-laced smoothie or salad. ![]() As a parent, I find this information troubling. ![]() Many of these fruits and vegetables are probably some of your favorites, often ending up on your family's shopping list and dinner table each week.
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