Consuming produce with multiple pesticides is concerning, experts say, because exposure to mixtures of pesticides may accumulate and raise risk. Even after taking those steps, testing found traces of 264 pesticides — of those, 203 appeared on Dirty Dozen produce. Exposure to pesticides has also been associated with lower sperm concentrations, heart disease, cancer and other disorders. Pesticide exposure during pregnancy may lead to an increased risk of birth defects, low birth weight and fetal death,” according to the AAP. There is no need to use bleach, soap or a produce wash — fruits and vegetables are porous and can absorb those chemicals.

Source: CNN March 24, 2026 14:31 UTC