The Dirty Dozen – everyday chemicals and how to make informed choices
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We encounter chemicals every day – often without noticing it
From brushing our teeth in the morning to the plastic container with lunch in the microwave – every day we come into contact with chemicals. Most are permitted within regulatory limits, but research shows that we still know too little about how different substances interact in the body.
As early as 2000, a global report showed that about 90 % of all chemicals people are exposed to are insufficiently studied. Some substances affect the hormonal system or the immune system over time, even at very low exposure.
It’s not about becoming afraid – it’s about becoming aware. Every time we choose clean raw ingredients and organic products, we reduce the burden on the body and the environment.
Parabens and phthalates – everyday hidden chemicals
Parabens and phthalates are common in beauty products, plastic packaging, and hygiene items.
Studies show that women who use several products daily can 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 in food
Pesticides are used to protect crops, but traces of them are often left in food.
According to Environmental Working Group (EWG) found over 200 different pesticides in samples from this year’s Dirty Dozen list 2025.
In addition, within the EU they have found PFAS-based pesticides – so-called “forever chemicals” – in up to 30 % of tested fruits and vegetables.
Choosing organic and locally grown is therefore a simple and effective way to reduce exposure.
The Dirty Dozen – the fruits and vegetables with the most pesticides
Each year, EWG publishes the The Dirty Dozen, which shows which fruits and vegetables contain the most pesticides.
The 2025 list includes:
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Strawberries
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Spinach
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Kale, collard greens, mustard greens
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Grapes
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Peaches
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Pears
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Nectarines
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Apples
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Blackberries
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Cherries
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Blueberries (cultivated)
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Potatoes
Alternatives and natural substitutes
Choosing organic is especially wise for these foods – but you can also switch to clean and nutritious alternatives with similar taste or nutritional content. Plus a few Superfood & berries organic options and tips.
| Dirty Dozen | Can be replaced with (cleaner alternatives) | Superfood & berries tips (organic) |
|---|---|---|
| Celery | Fennel, zucchini, cucumber (organic) | – |
| Peach | Mango, papaya, cantaloupe | Berry Beautiful – with lucuma, rosehip, baobab, blueberries & acai. |
| Strawberries | Raspberries, wild blueberries, blackberries | Berry Beautiful – a berry blend without additives, perfect in 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, figs | Belly Boost – with baobab, ginger & cinnamon, provides gentle sweetness & fiber. |
| Nectarine | Raspberries, watermelon, kiwi | Hormon Harmony – with ashwagandha, lucuma & maca, balancing & nutritious. |
| Green bell pepper | Broccoli, peas, romaine lettuce | – |
| Red bell pepper | Tomato, asparagus, carrot, broccoli | – |
| Spinach / lettuce | Chard, asparagus, Brussels sprouts | Hormon Harmony – green adaptogens & plants for balance. |
| Kale | Cress, beet greens, chard | Hormon Harmony – rich in phytonutrients. |
| Cherries | Raspberries, blueberries, redcurrants | Berry Beautiful – natural color, sweetness & glow. |
| 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: Swedish organic raw ingredients are often a safe choice thanks to strict regulations and high food safety.
Recipe: Overnight oats with applesauce & Berry Beautiful
Ingredients:
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2 dl organic rolled oats
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2 tsp organic chia seeds
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1 tsp Ceylon cinnamon
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1–2 tsp Berry Beautiful, Organic superfood blend ECO certified via SMAK
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1 dl homemade applesauce (preferably from Swedish apples)
How to make it:
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Mix the oats, chia seeds, cinnamon, and Berry Beautiful.
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Pour over your choice of milk and let sit in the fridge overnight.
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Top with applesauce and blueberries.
A simple way to choose clean, colorful, and naturally delicious.
Choose clean, choose consciously
Reducing the amount of pesticides in food isn’t about perfection – it’s about conscious choices.
With Superfood & berries you get natural, organic products designed to make everyday life easier, tastier, and cleaner. Simply a great complement.
Explore all Superfood & berries products here
Sources & references
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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 -
Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (2024). Chemicals in everyday life – facts and advice.
https://www.naturvardsverket.se
