When to buy Organic

Buying organic produce can be expensive. One way to cut down is to buy only those vegetables and fruits that contain the highest levels of contamination. Still, be wary of organic produce from other countries where the standards are not as high.

Here are the worst of the bunch, in order of risk, based on a new analysis of government data by the nonprofit Organic Center. (Produce with the lowest pesticide risk includes citrus fruits, bananas, pineapples and onions.)

Riskiest fruits
Imported grapes
Cranberries
Nectarines
Peaches
Strawberries
Pears
Apples
Cherries

Riskiest vegetables
Green beans
Sweet bell peppers
Celery
Cucumbers
Potatoes
Tomatoes
Peas
Lettuce

This list refers to U.S. produce. Some imported items have higher pesticide levels. The "risk index score" for an imported peach is almost 5 times that of a domestic peach; for sweet bell peppers, it's nearly 5 1/2 times as high. Also, be wary of overseas "organics," where regulatory oversight might not be as reliable.
(taken from the Lifestyles Market Newsletter)