How to Safely Wash Berries to Reduce Pesticide Exposure

Berries like strawberries and blackberries are among the most pesticide-contaminated fruits in the U.S., according to the 2026 Dirty Dozen list from the Environmental Working Group (EWG). This list highlights the health risks associated with pesticide exposure, particularly for children and pregnant women, linking it to various health issues including birth defects and cancer. To mitigate these risks, experts recommend washing berries with baking soda or vinegar to effectively reduce pesticide residues. For those who can afford it, buying organic berries is the best option to avoid harmful chemicals. The article also provides specific washing techniques and highlights the concerning pesticide levels found in nonorganic blackberries.

Key Details: • Soak berries in a baking soda solution (1 tsp per 2 cups water) for 1-2 minutes. • If using vinegar, mix 1 part vinegar to 3-4 parts water and soak for 1-2 minutes. • Nonorganic blackberries tested in 2024 contained an average of four pesticide residues. • Consider purchasing organic berries to significantly reduce pesticide exposure.