The Dirty Dozen – everyday chemicals and how to make informed choices
Share
We encounter chemicals every day – often without noticing it
From brushing your teeth in the morning to the plastic lunch box in the microwave – every day we come into contact with chemicals. Most are allowed within limit values, but research shows that we still know too little about how different substances interact in the body.
Already in 2000 a global report showed that approximately 90% of all chemicals that people are exposed to are insufficiently studied. Some substances affect the hormonal or immune systems over time, even at very low exposure.
It's not about becoming afraid — it's about becoming aware. Every time we choose pure ingredients and organic products, we reduce the burden on the body and the environment.
Parabens and phthalates – the hidden everyday chemicals
Parabens and phthalates are common in beauty products, plastic packaging, and personal care items.
Studies show that women who use multiple products daily may be exposed to up to 250 chemicals, of which more than half can be identified in the body the same day.
That's why it's wise to read ingredient lists and choose products with short, natural ingredient lists. The same philosophy applies to the food we eat – the fewer synthetic additives, the better for the body.
Pesticides and pest control agents in food
Pesticides are used to protect crops, but residues of them often remain in food.
According to Environmental Working Group (EWG) discovered over 200 different pesticides i samples from this year Dirty Dozen list 2025.
Within the EU, they have also found PFAS-based pesticides – so-called "forever chemicals" – for up to 30% of tested fruits and vegetables.
Choosing organic and locally grown is therefore an easy and effective way to reduce exposure.
The Dirty Dozen – the fruits and vegetables with the most pesticides
Every year EWG publishes the list The Dirty Dozen, which shows which fruits and vegetables contain the most pesticides.
The list for 2025 includes:
- Strawberries
- Spinach
- Kale, collard greens, mustard greens
- Grapes
- Peaches
- Pear
- Nectarines
- Äpplen
- Blackberry
- Cherry
- Blueberries (cultivated)
- Potato
Alternative and natural substitutes
Choosing organic is particularly wise for these foods – but you can also switch to pure and nutritious alternatives with similar taste or nutritional content. Plus some Superfood & berries organic options and tips.
| Dirty Dozen | Can be replaced with (cleaner alternative) | Superfood & berries tips (organic) |
|---|---|---|
| Celery | Fennel, zucchini, cucumber (organic) | – |
| Peach | Mango, papaya, cantaloupe melon | Berry Beautiful – with lucuma, rosehip, baobab, blueberry & acai. |
| Strawberries | Raspberry, wild blueberries, blackberry | Berry Beautiful – a berry mix with no additives, perfect for smoothies. |
| Apples | Pears (organic), watermelon, kiwi | Wake Up Wonder – with cacao, guayusa & chaga for natural energy. |
| Cultivated blueberries | Wild blueberries, blackcurrants, aronia | Berry Beautiful – naturally rich in antioxidants. |
| Apricot | Mango, papaya, fig | Belly Boost – with baobab, ginger & cinnamon, provides mild sweetness & fiber. |
| Nectarine | Raspberry, watermelon, kiwi | Hormone Harmony – with ashwagandha, lucuma & maca, balancing & nutritious. |
| Green bell pepper | Broccoli, peas, romaine lettuce | – |
| Red bell pepper | Tomato, asparagus, carrot, broccoli | – |
| Spinach / lettuce | Swiss chard, asparagus, Brussels sprouts | Hormone Harmony – green adaptogens & herbs for balance. |
| Kale | Cress, beetroot greens, chard | Hormone Harmony - rich in plant nutrients. |
| Cherry | Raspberries, blueberries, redcurrants | Berry Beautiful – natural color, sweetness & radiance. |
| Cucumber | Zucchini, fennel, celery (organic) | Belly Boost - with lemongrass, psyllium husk & star anise. |
| Potatoes / squash | Sweet potato, carrot, parsnip | Belly Boost – natural fiber blend for everyday balance. |
| Grapes / wine | Kiwi, watermelon, mango, natural wine (organic) | Wake Up Wonder – with guayusa & reishi, for focus & energy. |
Tips: organic ingredients are often a safe choice thanks to strict regulations and high food safety.
Recipe: Overnight oats with apple sauce & Berry Beautiful
Ingredients:
- 2 dl organic rolled oats
- 2 tsp organic chia seeds
- 1 tsp Ceylon cinnamon
- 1–2 tsp Berry Beautiful, Organic superfood blend EU organic certified via SMAK
- 1 dl homemade applesauce (preferably made with Swedish apples)
How to do it:
- Mix oats, chia seeds, cinnamon and Berry Beautiful.
- Pour over any milk and let sit in the refrigerator overnight.
- Top with apple sauce and blueberries.
An easy way to choose clean, colorful, and naturally delicious.
Choose clean, choose consciously
Att reducing the amount of pesticides in food isn't about perfection — it's about making conscious choices.
With Superfood & berries you get natural, organic products designed to make everyday life easier, more flavorful and cleaner. Simply put, a great complement.
Explore all Superfood & berries products here
Sources & references
Environmental Working Group (2025). Dirty Dozen™ and Clean Fifteen™ Lists.
https://www.ewg.org/foodnews
PAN Europe (2024). Toxic Harvest: PFAS pesticides in fruit and vegetables in Europe.
https://www.pan-europe.info
EFSA (2023). Annual Report on Pesticide Residues in Food.
https://www.efsa.europa.eu
Environmental Protection Agency (2024). Chemicals in everyday life – facts and advice.
https://www.naturvardsverket.se
