Pesticide can harm bees, which are vital for pollinating food crops.

Half of cauliflowers sampled were pesticide-free.

Though residue levels were well below the EPA limit, it’s worth noting that imidacloprid and similar pesticides are linked to declining honeybee and wild bee populations ( 7, 38, 39).Īs a third of the global food supply depends on pollination by bees and other insects, choosing organic cauliflower can help support eco-friendly farming ( 40).Ĭauliflower is a great source of vitamin C, packing 77% of the RDI per 1 cup (100 grams) of raw florets ( 41).Īdditionally, cauliflower and other cruciferous vegetables are rich in plant compounds that help reduce inflammation and may reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease ( 42). The pesticide imidacloprid was found to contaminate 30% of cauliflower samples.

Pesticide residues but also to remove potentially harmful bacteria.īesides the fact that 50% of cauliflowers tested contained no detectable pesticide residues, none of those with residues had more than three different pesticides ( 6, 7). Wash and scrub the rind of cantaloupes before cutting - not only to reduce Than 60% of cantaloupes tested had no measurable pesticide residues. Always keep cut melons refrigerated to reduce the risk of food poisoning.Ī 1-cup (177-gram) serving of cantaloupe packs more than 100% of the RDI for both vitamin A (as beta-carotene) and vitamin C ( 37). To help remove bacteria - and potentially some of the pesticide residue - you should scrub cantaloupe and other melons with a clean produce brush and cool tap water before cutting. The fruit’s netted rind and low acid levels make it conducive for bacteria ( 36). However, harmful bacteria may contaminate the cantaloupe rind and transfer to the flesh when you cut the melon. The thick rind provides some protection against pesticides ( 6, 7). Of 372 cantaloupes tested, over 60% had no detectable pesticide residues, and only 10% of those with residues had more than one type.

Organic clementines