Dirty Dozen

I like organic produce. My budget does not. But we worked out a compromise. Those great folks at the Environmental Working Group came up with a list of produce with the highest pesticide residues. Using the list you can determine when to buy organic produce and when you can save a few dollars by purchasing conventionally grown produce. And, if you have an iPhone, they even have a great new app to use when you’re shopping. (http://www.foodnews.org/)

Here’s the low-down on the down and dirty:

12 Most Contaminated (buy organic)

Peaches
Apples
Sweet Bell Peppers
Celery
Nectarines
Strawberries
Cherries
Pears
Grapes (Imported)
Spinach
Lettuce
Potatoes

12 Least Contaminated (buy conventionally grown)

Onions
Avocado
Sweet Corn (Frozen)
Pineapples
Mango
Asparagus
Sweet Peas (Frozen)
Kiwi Fruit
Bananas
Cabbage
Broccoli
Papaya

April 29, 2009. Uncategorized. Leave a comment.

Grow Your Own

Having lived in teeny city apartments without a single patch of green, I’m excited to have a little yard to call my own. This summer I’m hoping to cultivate an herb and vegetable garden. I’m starting with lemon verbena, English thyme, rosemary, spearmint, cilantro, tomatoes, and of course some cat grass for my feisty feline. Have a recipe to recommend? I also stumbled upon these begonias – did someone say cocktails?