Summer berries can be full of pesticides. Learn the best ways to wash them

Summer Berries and Pesticide Concerns: A Guide to Safe Consumption

Summer berries can be full of pesticides - Imagine the joy of watching a baby eagerly devour a strawberry, eyes wide with delight and a persistent "more, more" chant echoing in the air. For many, berries symbolize the sweet rewards of healthy eating—packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin C. Yet, for concerned grandparents, the sight of these vibrant fruits can spark anxiety. The 2026 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce, released by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), reveals that blackberries, strawberries, and blueberries consistently rank among the “Dirty Dozen,” a list of produce with the highest pesticide residues in the U.S. This annual report, first published in 2004, serves as a roadmap for consumers seeking to minimize chemical exposure in their diets.

Why Berries Make the Dirty Dozen

The 2026 Dirty Dozen includes not only berries but also cherries, apples, pears, grapes, peaches, nectarines, and leafy greens like kale and spinach. While the order of these items may shift over time, berries remain a recurring concern. Their delicate texture and high surface area make them particularly susceptible to pesticide accumulation, especially during the growing season. Despite their nutritional value, the presence of these chemicals raises questions about their long-term impact on health, particularly for children.

Contrast this with raspberries, which are notably absent from the 2026 list. Studies suggest they rank closer to the “Clean Fifteen,” a group of produce with minimal pesticide residues. The difference lies in farming practices: while organic farming reduces reliance on synthetic chemicals, conventional methods may still leave traces. Raspberries, however, often benefit from growing conditions that limit pesticide buildup, making them a safer choice for health-conscious consumers.

The Pesticide Debate: Safety and Exposure

When evaluating pesticide levels, the EWG bases its ratings on data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The USDA’s findings typically show pesticide concentrations well within the safety thresholds set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Still, critics argue these limits are insufficient. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) highlights that even low-level exposure during pregnancy could increase the risk of birth defects, low birth weight, and fetal death. Children, they note, are especially vulnerable to cumulative pesticide effects, which may link to attention issues, learning disabilities, and cancer.

“Pesticide exposure during pregnancy may lead to an increased risk of birth defects, low birth weight and fetal death,” according to the AAP.

Additional research connects pesticide residues to other health concerns, such as reduced sperm count, heart disease, and genetic damage. The Alliance for Food and Farming, a coalition representing both organic and conventional farmers, emphasizes that residues alone do not equate to danger. “The mere presence of a residue does not automatically mean something is unsafe,” the group stated. They point to the EPA’s safety margins, which are designed to protect even the most sensitive populations, including infants.

Washing Techniques: What Works?

For those unable to afford organic produce, washing remains a critical step. Peng Gao, an environmental health and exposomics expert at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, explains that “contact” pesticides—those applied to the surface of fruits and vegetables—can often be removed through simple rinsing. However, “systemic” pesticides, which seep into the plant’s tissues, pose a greater challenge. These chemicals may linger even after washing, requiring more thorough methods.

Recent studies provide clarity on effective washing strategies. A peer-reviewed April report by EWG scientists analyzed 47 global studies, including comparisons of tap water, vinegar, and baking soda. While tap water offers some benefit, it only reduces pesticide levels by about 30% on average. Soaking in vinegar or baking soda, on the other hand, proved more effective, achieving a median reduction of up to 50%. “Overall, soaking with vinegar or baking soda had the highest median percent reduction—about 50%—across all pesticides and produce,” noted Yoshira Ornelas Van Horne, an environmental health sciences professor at UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, who was not involved in the review.

Practical Steps for Safer Berries

When washing berries, a simple recipe can help: dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in two cups of water and soak the fruit for five to ten minutes. This mildly alkaline solution breaks down many surface pesticides, according to Gao. However, berries may only need a shorter soak—often one to two minutes—due to their high water content and thin skin. For other produce, a longer immersion time is recommended to ensure thorough removal.

Organic options offer another layer of protection. By choosing organic blackberries, strawberries, and blueberries, consumers avoid synthetic pesticides, which are commonly used in conventional farming. Organic farmers rely on natural alternatives like minerals and plant-based extracts. Yet, contamination is still possible if neighboring farms use prohibited chemicals. This can lead to organic certification loss, underscoring the importance of monitoring agricultural practices.

Health Implications and Consumer Choices

Experts stress that adopting organic habits early in a child’s life can significantly lower pesticide exposure. The 2026 report highlights that when families transitioned to organic foods, measurable reductions in body pesticide levels occurred within days. This aligns with broader findings that suggest dietary changes can directly impact internal chemical concentrations.

While organic produce is ideal, it’s not always accessible. For budget-conscious shoppers, washing with vinegar or baking soda is a practical alternative. The combination of these methods creates a cleaning solution that targets a range of pesticides, offering a middle ground between convenience and health. For instance, baking soda’s alkaline properties neutralize acidic pesticides, while vinegar’s acetic acid dissolves others. Together, they form a powerful tool for reducing residues without requiring a complete shift to organic.

Looking Ahead: The Role of Research and Advocacy

The ongoing discussion about pesticide safety reflects the complexity of balancing agricultural needs with health concerns. While the USDA’s data provides a baseline, advocates argue for stricter limits, especially as studies uncover new links between pesticides and chronic diseases. The AAP’s warnings about childhood exposure, paired with findings on sperm health and genetic damage, highlight the urgency of addressing these risks.

As research evolves, so too do consumer strategies. From the field to the kitchen, every step matters. Whether through selecting organic produce, employing effective washing techniques, or staying informed about the latest studies, individuals can take control of their dietary choices. The 2026 Dirty Dozen serves as a reminder that even the most nutritious foods carry hidden risks—risks that can be mitigated with mindful preparation and informed decisions.

Ultimately, the goal is to enjoy the natural sweetness of berries without compromising health. By understanding the science behind pesticide residues and exploring practical solutions, families can create a safer, more wholesome eating environment. The journey from farm to fork is not just about taste—it’s about protecting the well-being of those who rely on our choices for nourishment.