15 fruits and vegetables that contain low levels of pesticides

Which fruits and vegetables contain low levels of pesticides?

Maureen Diament

17 Feb 2015

updated the 6 October 2015 à 23:21

1/15
Onions
Onions contain significant quantities of potassium, phosphorous and calcium, as well as numerous antioxidants. These are the perfect ingredients for keeping healthy.
2/15
Avocados
According to a study published in Nutrition Newspaper in 2013, avocados decrease hunger and cravings by 40% for up to three hours after consumption.
3/15
Sweet corn
Consume in its natural cob form as canned corn tend to contain numerous additives. Moreover, it is relatively calorific for a vegetable.
4/15
Mango
Mangoes contain some vitamin C and magnesium, but are especially pro-vitamin A, which explains their beautiful orange colour.
5/15
Asparagus
With few calories, asparagus is rich in antioxidants, folate (vitamin B9), vitamin K and fibres.
6/15
Peas
This vegetable, which is rich in protein, also contains numerous minerals, oligo-elements, and vitamins B and C.
7/15
Kiwi
With few calories, kiwi contains twice as much vitamin C than an orange.
8/15
Cabbage
Very light, cabbage is also hyper-concentrated in nutrients; for example, kale is considered a super aliment.
9/15
Eggplant
Its dark skin hides numerous antioxidant pigments that can reap many benefits. Low in calories, the eggplant is rich in fibre and has diuretic properties.
10/15
Papaya
The fruit contains vitamin C, catechins and carotenoids. In brief, papaya is a real cocktail of antioxidants that should feature more frequently on our plates.
11/15
Watermelon
The popular fruit on a warm day is the refreshing watermelon that contains virtually no fat, is extremely low in calories and assists dieters to shed weight.
One reason why watermelon can help you to lose weight is that it is a very rich source of vitamin B that boosts energy levels and reduces the need to eat extra food.
Watermelon is also a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant that may protect the body against womb, breast and colon cancers.
12/15
Broccoli
Broccoli is one of the most low-calorie foods that contain only 30 calories per serving.
The vegetable is enriched with fiber (helping one to feel full) and protein (the protein is equal to that found in rice).
Broccoli is also a rich source of beta-carotene, zinc and selenium that boosts immune system functions. The carotenoid lutein content in broccoli also fights against arterial hardening, thereby cutting the risk of heart diseases.
13/15
Tomato
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that is particularly effective when cooked. Cholesterol-lowering and anti-inflammatory, the lycopene can help in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
14/15
Sweet potato
Baked or in soup, this vegetable is rich in nutrients.
15/15
Pineapple
About 100g of pineapple contains 18 mg of vitamin C, well protected by the thickness of its skin and the natural acidity of the flesh. It also contains bromelin, an enzyme that facilitates the digestion of proteins

Not all fruits and vegetables are full of pesticides. Here are 15 items that contain only a small amount that makes them still safe to consume.

To enjoy the health benefits of fruits and fresh vegetables without risking the serious consequences of pesticides, there are two alternatives. You can opt for organic fruits and vegetables or choose more ‘resistant’ products that do not need to be splashed with chemicals before arriving on our plates.

WHEN PESTICIDES ARE IN THE FLESH

Some pesticides are sprayed on the surface of fruits and vegetables but do not penetrate any further. These can be eradicated by meticulous cleaning. We can peel or scrub the produce with a vegetable brush, rinse them and dry them well to eliminate the compounds that remain in the water. However, when chemicals penetrate the flesh of the vegetables, washing will have no effect. In these cases, organic products are the best option.

Discover in the gallery above fruits and vegetables on which only a little pesticide is used. However, always favour seasonal and local fruits and vegetables that grow more easily without chemical agents and don’t need to be saturated with toxins to travel long distances without getting damaged.

Maureen DIAMENT

Source: Report from the environmental working group, 2014.

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Which fruits and vegetables contain low levels of pesticides?

WHEN PESTICIDES ARE IN THE FLESH

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