The Dirty Dozen and The Clean 15 2025

What is the Dirty Dozen and The Clean 15?

Every year, the Environmental Working Group  releases a list of 12 fruits and vegetables that have the highest levels of pesticide residue. This is called the "Dirty Dozen" list. Similarly, they also have "The Clean 15" which is a list that showcases the fruits and vegetables that tend to have the lowest pesticide residues when conventionally grown.

At Jo Anne's Place, all of our produce is Certified Organic, so in order to avoid all the pesticides on the Dirty Dozen list, you'll want to buy from us.


What Does "Organic" mean?


Pro-Cert, one of the top organic certification agencies has this to say about organic:

“Organic is a claim referring to methods of agricultural production and food processing that minimizes disruption of the natural environment and encourages the health and vitality of the soil, promotes humane animal management and preserves ecological integrity.”


Why Does It Matter?


While there is still a lot of debate on whether buying organic is necessary, not buying it has an elevated risk of cancer, disrupted hormones and other negative ailments. For a more in-depth look into this topic, check out our blog post on Why Organic Matters.


The Dirty Dozen


Spinach
Strawberry
Kale
Grape
Peach
Cherry
Nectarine
Pear
Apple
Blackberry
Blueberry
Potato

You should be buying Certified Organic for these products as they contain high levels of pesticide residue.


The Clean 15


Pineapple
Sweet Corn
Avocado
Papaya
Onion
Sweet Peas
Asparagus
Cabbage
Watermelon
Cauliflower
Banana
Mango
Carrots
Mushrooms
Kiwi

These products usually have less pesticide residue, so it is okay to not buy organic. However, these are still delicious and fresh when bought organic, so you can't really go wrong!

Conclusion


Buying Certified Organic is a great way to ensure your produce is as fresh and clean as possible. Especially for items on the Dirty Dozen list, buying organic can be very beneficial. For items on The Clean 15 list, it's okay to not buy organic, but it also doesn't hurt when you do! In conclusion, buying your produce at Jo Anne's Place is a great way to make sure the fruits and vegetables you're eating are clean and healthy to eat!


By Jonathan Tessier January 13, 2026
We are going to break down what Manuka Honey is, how it can benefit you and go very deep into the details on the differences between the products we carry.
By Jonathan Tessier January 8, 2026
The cold weather is here, which means you should stock up on all the necessary supplements you need so you can stay healthy even when it gets ugly outside.
Dried orange slice, crystals, and a pen on a journal page
By April Allen December 23, 2025
The start of a new year can come with a lot of pressure to reset, overhaul, and become a 'better' version of yourself overnight. Traditional New Years' resolutions can feel motivating at first, but can quickly become overwhelming and restricting. Did you know that 88% of people fail their resolution within the first 2 weeks? It makes us wonder why. And we think that it's because they are rooted in an all-or-nothing mindset that doesn't leave room for life's unpredictability. And our resolutions are often things we think we SHOULD do (because of pressure from others, societal standards, etc.) and not things that we actually VALUE. It’s important to ensure you are enhancing your wellness in harmony with your surroundings and your reality. At Jo Anne's Place, we believe the new year is less about drastic change and more about gentle intention. A holistic approach to the new year invited you to build healthy habits that support your body, mind, and lifestyle at a pace that feels sustainable for you. Rather than chasing resolutions, this is an opportunity to tune in, reflect, and choose practices that truly support your long-term wellbeing. If setting goals is your thing, we support that! Just remember to keep them realistic and grounded in your values. If setting resolutions isn't for you, here are some gentler ways to step into the new year:
By April Allen November 27, 2025
Feeling the Holiday pressure? In the midst of Winter’s chill and the Holiday rush, your own well-being deserves space to breathe. The natural world around us is slowing down, so why shouldn’t we? Winter invites us to turn inward, and it is especially important to support your mental health during these longer, darker days. Did you know that we, as Canadians, are more prone to Seasonal Affective Disorder due to our northern latitude, which results in less sunlight during the winter? The Holiday season can be equal parts joyful and overwhelming. Schedules get busy, routines slip, and we're surrounded by comfort foods and sweet treats. Between gatherings, travel, and to-do lists, our well-being can take a back seat. Here are some simple tips to keep you grounded, nourished, and feeling your best throughout the season: *These suggestions are not intended to replace appropriate professional advice. Please check labels for contraindications and check with your pharmacist if you are on prescription drugs. These suggestions are based on over 40 years of customer experience at Jo Anne’s Place.
By April Allen November 27, 2025
Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays!
Halloween decorations on the side. Text reads: Healthy Halloween Recipes
By Jonathan Tessier October 15, 2025
Halloween is coming up quick! This year, Halloween is on a Friday, which means lots of fun!
By Jonathan Tessier October 1, 2025
This year, Thanksgiving weekend is from Friday, October 10th to Monday, October 13th. Canadian Thanksgiving is always celebrated on the second Monday of October.
By April Allen September 30, 2025
Happy Thanksgiving! Looking to switch it up and try some new recipes this year? Here is a roundup of recipes, many of which are vegan and gluten-free so you can create a holiday meal fit for all!
On the left is an assortment of bowls with food in them, on the right is a person styling their hair
By Jonathan Tessier September 11, 2025
Discover the best foods for hair growth. Boost shine, strength, and thickness naturally with nutrient-rich options that support healthy hair.
A classroom in the background with a title that says
By Jonathan Tessier September 10, 2025
With back to school in full gear, parents are concerned about their kids well-being. A lot of today's youth face a mountain of problems like anxiety and depression.