Yes, celery has historically been included on the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Dirty Dozen list due to its propensity for carrying significant pesticide residues. However, it is important to note that for 2026, celery is not among the top 12 items on the official Dirty Dozen list. It remains a vegetable that often tests positive for multiple pesticides, and it ranks in the “middle” range of EWG’s full produce ranking.
Navigating the world of conventionally grown versus organic produce can feel overwhelming. Understanding the nuances of pesticide detection and regulation is crucial for making informed choices that align with your health goals and budget. This guide will delve into celery’s historical standing, the scientific realities of pesticide residues, and practical strategies for minimizing exposure.
Understanding the Dirty Dozen List and Why It Matters
The Dirty Dozen is an annual list published by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). It highlights conventionally grown fruits and vegetables that tend to have the highest levels of pesticide residues, even after washing and peeling. The EWG compiles this list using data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
The list serves as a practical guide for consumers, especially those on a budget. It helps prioritize which produce items are most beneficial to buy organic to reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. The EWG acknowledges that eating fruits and vegetables is essential for a healthy diet. Their guide aims to encourage produce consumption while empowering consumers to make informed choices about pesticide exposure.
Celery’s History on the Dirty Dozen
Celery has frequently appeared on the Dirty Dozen list in previous years. For instance, it ranked as high as #6 in 2017. Studies by the USDA have found a variety of pesticide residues on celery, with some samples containing multiple different chemicals. Celery’s high water content and porous nature can allow pesticide residues to be absorbed into the stalks, making them difficult to wash off.
In the 2026 Dirty Dozen list, celery did not make the top 12. However, the EWG’s full ranking of 47 fruits and vegetables places celery in the middle range, around position #30. This means it still often contains pesticide residues, though not as high as the top offenders. For example, three celery samples exceeded EPA maximum residue limits in 2023, illustrating its potential for containing residues.
The Science Behind Pesticide Residues on Celery
Pesticides are chemicals farmers use in agriculture to protect crops from pests like insects, weeds, and fungi. Farmers apply pesticides to prevent crop damage and ensure higher yields. These pesticides can remain in small amounts, known as residues, on or in fresh produce.
Celery’s structure, with its fibrous, often porous stalks, can absorb pesticides directly from the soil and water, and from direct application. Common types of pesticides found on produce include insecticides and fungicides. While regulatory bodies set tolerance levels, the cumulative effect of various pesticide exposures is a growing concern for some health advocates.
Potential health implications of pesticide exposure depend on the type of pesticide, the amount of exposure, and individual sensitivity. Some pesticides can affect the nervous system, irritate skin or eyes, or act as endocrine disruptors. “Pesticides are poisons,” states the Massachusetts Medical Society, explaining that “exposure to pesticides can cause a number of health effects, linked to a range of serious illnesses and diseases from respiratory problems to cancer.”
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) and Their Methodology
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a non-profit organization focused on protecting human health and the environment. Since 2004, the EWG has published its annual Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce, which includes the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists. Their rankings are based on an analysis of over 54,000 produce samples tested by the USDA’s Pesticide Data Program (PDP).
The EWG’s methodology, updated in 2025 and continuing in 2026, considers several factors beyond just the presence of pesticides. These factors include the abundance, diversity, intensity, and toxicity of pesticides found on the produce. In 2026, a significant finding was the detection of PFAS “forever chemicals” pesticides on 63% of all Dirty Dozen produce samples. PFAS chemicals are concerning because they do not break down naturally and can accumulate in the body over time.
However, the EWG’s methodology has faced criticism from other scientific bodies. The Alliance for Food and Farming (AFF) argues that the EWG’s rankings lack scientific credibility because they do not adequately consider the amount of residue on food, the amount of food consumed, and the actual toxicity of the specific pesticides, suggesting that substituting organic for conventional forms may not result in an “appreciable reduction of consumer risks”. The USDA and EPA consistently report that the vast majority of pesticide residues on food are below federal tolerance levels.
Making Informed Choices: Organic vs. Conventional Celery
Choosing between organic and conventional celery involves balancing factors like pesticide exposure, cost, and availability. While organic celery is grown without synthetic pesticides, conventional celery is often more affordable and widely accessible.
Benefits of choosing organic celery include:
- Reduced exposure to synthetic pesticide residues.
- Avoidance of PFAS “forever chemicals” that were detected on 63% of Dirty Dozen produce in 2026.
- Support for agricultural practices that promote environmental health and biodiversity.
“The health benefits of eating produce still outweigh the risks of pesticide exposure,” emphasizes the EWG, noting that their guide helps consumers understand which conventional items carry the heaviest pesticide burden. For items like celery that may contain residues, choosing organic can be a sensible strategy for those prioritizing minimal chemical intake.
Here is a comparison of organic and conventional celery:
| Feature | Organic Celery | Conventional Celery |
|---|---|---|
| Pesticide Residue Risk | Significantly lower; grown without most synthetic pesticides. | Higher risk of multiple synthetic pesticide residues, including PFAS. |
| Cost | Generally higher due to production methods. | Typically more affordable. |
| Availability | Widely available, especially in health food stores and larger supermarkets. | Ubiquitous in all grocery stores. |
| Certification | USDA Organic certified. | No specific organic certification. |
Dr. Carl Winter, Extension Toxicologist Emeritus at the University of California, Davis, highlights that to accurately assess consumer risks from pesticides, one needs to consider “the amount of residue on the foods, the amount of food consumed, and the toxicity of the pesticides”. This perspective suggests that while residues exist, the actual risk from low levels on conventional produce is often negligible.
Effective Washing Techniques for Reducing Pesticide Residues
Properly washing celery can help reduce surface pesticide residues, dirt, and bacteria. While no method is 100% effective, especially for systemic pesticides absorbed into the plant tissue, thorough washing is always recommended for both conventional and organic produce.
Steps for washing celery:
- Wash your hands with soap and warm water before handling produce.
- Hold celery stalks under cool, running water. Rub the stalks briskly with your hands or a clean vegetable brush to remove dirt and surface residues.
- For celery, you can separate the stalks to ensure thorough cleaning, especially in crevices where dirt and residues might accumulate.
- Trim off the tops and outer portions, which may contain more dirt and residues.
- The FDA does not recommend washing fruits and vegetables with soap, detergent, or commercial produce washes, as they have not been proven more effective than water alone and can leave residues.
An EWG-backed study suggests that soaking produce in a baking soda or vinegar solution may be more effective than plain water for reducing residues on some produce. However, plain running water remains a widely recommended and accessible method. Peeling celery, while reducing some nutrients, would further reduce residues, particularly those absorbed into the outer layers.
Beyond Celery: A Broader Look at the Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen
The Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists offer a comprehensive guide to a wide range of produce, enabling consumers to make strategic purchasing decisions. The Environmental Working Group updates these lists annually based on the latest USDA data.
In 2026, the Dirty Dozen includes items such as spinach, kale/collard/mustard greens, strawberries, grapes, nectarines, peaches, cherries, apples, blackberries, pears, potatoes, and blueberries. These items consistently show higher levels of pesticide residues, making them ideal candidates for organic purchases.
Conversely, the Clean Fifteen lists produce with very low or no detectable pesticide residues. These are considered safer to buy conventionally. The 2026 Clean Fifteen includes pineapple, sweet corn, avocados, papaya, onions, sweet peas (frozen), asparagus, cabbage, cauliflower, watermelon, mangoes, bananas, carrots, mushrooms, and kiwi. Many of these have thick skins or natural defenses that limit pesticide penetration.
Using both lists allows consumers to reduce their overall pesticide exposure while still enjoying a diverse, nutrient-rich diet.
- Examples from the 2026 Dirty Dozen:
- Spinach
- Strawberries
- Grapes
- Apples
- Examples from the 2026 Clean Fifteen:
- Avocados
- Sweet Corn
- Pineapple
- Bananas
Understanding Pesticide Regulation and Food Safety in the US
Food safety regarding pesticides in the United States is a shared responsibility among several federal agencies. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) all play critical roles in regulating and monitoring pesticides.
The EPA is primarily responsible for registering pesticides and setting maximum legal residue limits, known as tolerances, for pesticides in food. These tolerances are established to ensure a “reasonable certainty of no harm,” considering exposure for infants, children, and adults. The EPA reevaluates pesticide safety every 15 years. Visit the EPA website for more information on pesticide regulation.
The FDA monitors domestic and imported foods for pesticide residues to ensure compliance with EPA-established tolerances. The FDA’s regulatory pesticide residue monitoring program selectively analyzes thousands of food samples yearly. In May 2026, the FDA announced updates to its compliance program to modernize and strengthen its monitoring of pesticides in human foods. Learn more about the FDA’s pesticide monitoring program.
The USDA collects data on pesticide residues through its Pesticide Data Program (PDP), which provides nationally representative data on pesticide levels in the U.S. food supply. The USDA’s 2024 Pesticide Data Program report, released in late 2025, indicated that more than 99% of tested foods were compliant with EPA pesticide maximum residue limits, with 42.3% having no detectable pesticide residues. Explore the USDA Pesticide Data Program.
Despite these regulatory efforts, debates continue regarding the adequacy of current tolerance levels. Consumer Reports, for instance, has argued that EPA’s tolerance levels may be too lenient and that a significant portion of foods tested by the USDA could pose a “high risk” when evaluated with stricter benchmarks.
FAQ Section
Is it safe to eat conventional celery?
Yes, conventional celery is generally considered safe to eat. Regulatory agencies like the EPA and FDA set strict tolerance levels for pesticide residues. The USDA consistently reports that most conventional produce contains pesticide residues well below these established safety limits. However, some consumers choose organic options to further reduce their exposure to these chemicals.
Does washing celery remove all pesticides?
Washing celery thoroughly under running water can significantly reduce surface pesticide residues, dirt, and bacteria. However, it may not remove all pesticide residues, especially those that are systemic (absorbed into the plant’s tissue) or embedded in porous surfaces. Peeling can further reduce residues but may remove some nutrients.
What is the main difference between organic and conventional celery?
The main difference lies in their farming practices, particularly regarding pesticide use. Organic celery is grown without most synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms, aiming for more environmentally friendly methods. Conventional celery is grown using synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, which can result in higher pesticide residues on the produce.
Why do people prioritize buying organic celery?
People prioritize buying organic celery primarily to minimize their exposure to synthetic pesticide residues. Organic farming practices prohibit the use of most synthetic pesticides. Consumers often seek organic options for celery due to its historical presence on the Dirty Dozen list and its porous nature, which can lead to higher absorption of chemicals. This choice aligns with a desire to reduce overall chemical intake and support environmentally friendly agriculture.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Health with Thoughtful Produce Choices
While celery is not on the 2026 Dirty Dozen list, its historical presence and placement in the “middle” range of EWG’s comprehensive ranking highlight its susceptibility to pesticide residues. Understanding resources like the Environmental Working Group’s Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists empowers consumers to make thoughtful decisions about their produce purchases. Whether opting for organic celery to minimize pesticide exposure or choosing conventional and washing thoroughly, the overarching goal remains to consume a diverse and abundant amount of fruits and vegetables for optimal health. Ultimately, the best approach combines awareness, smart shopping, and effective preparation techniques to ensure a healthy and safe diet.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional or nutritionist for personalized guidance on dietary choices, especially if you have specific health concerns or conditions. Information regarding pesticide residues and health risks is subject to ongoing scientific research and regulatory updates.
