With an increasing number of consumers becoming conscious about their health and environmental impact, the demand for organic food is growing. Organic foods are not only better for your health, but they are also a safer choice for the environment. However, considering the higher price point, it might not be feasible for everyone to switch completely to organic foods. So, what are the foods you should prioritize buying organic?
The following list is based on real-world trends, data, and interviews with health and environmental experts. It delivers the top 10 foods that you should always buy organic due to their high pesticide levels, nutritional benefits, and/or environmental impact.
1. Strawberries

Strawberries top the list as one of the food items you should always buy organic. They absorb pesticides more than other fruits and vegetables due to their porous surface. Also, they are often grown with the help of harmful fumigants which are toxic to humans and the environment.
The demand for organic strawberries is growing significantly due to increased awareness about their health benefits and safety. According to a report from the US Department of Agriculture, organic strawberries have more antioxidants and vitamin C compared to their conventionally grown counterparts.
2. Spinach

Spinach is a nutrient-rich leafy green that is heavily sprayed with pesticides in conventional farming. The thin leaves of spinach absorb pesticides, making it difficult to wash them off completely. So, buying organic spinach is a safer choice for your health.
Due to its high nutritional value, the popularity of organic spinach is on the rise. A study published by the National Library of Medicine revealed that organic spinach contains higher levels of minerals like iron and zinc compared to conventionally grown spinach.
3. Apples

Apples are a staple in many households, but they are one of the fruits most contaminated with pesticides. The skin of apples, which contains many beneficial nutrients, absorbs pesticides easily, making it a food item you should always buy organic.
The trend of buying organic apples is rapidly growing due to awareness about their safety and health benefits. A study by the Public Library of Science showed that organic apples have a higher diversity of beneficial bacteria than conventionally grown apples.
4. Grapes

Grapes, especially those used for wine production, are often heavily sprayed with pesticides. These pesticides are absorbed into the grape skins, making it impossible to wash off. This is why grapes make the list of foods to always buy organic.
Organic grapes are becoming more popular, not just for eating, but also for wine production. According to Wine Business, there is a growing trend towards organic wine, leading to an increased demand for organic grapes.
5. Peaches

Peaches have a soft, porous skin that easily absorbs pesticides. This is worrying as peaches are often heavily sprayed with pesticides to combat various pests and diseases. Therefore, it’s safer to opt for organic peaches.
The demand for organic peaches is on the rise, driven by consumer awareness about their health and environmental benefits. According to the US Department of Agriculture, organic peaches have higher antioxidant levels compared to conventionally grown peaches.
6. Potatoes

Potatoes are another food item that absorbs a high level of pesticides. These pesticides can’t be completely removed even after washing and peeling. Therefore, buying organic potatoes is a safer choice for your health.
The trend of buying organic potatoes is growing due to increased awareness about their safety and nutritional benefits. A study by the National Library of Medicine revealed that organic potatoes contain higher levels of vitamins and antioxidants compared to conventionally grown potatoes.
7. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are often heavily sprayed with pesticides to protect them from pests and diseases. Their thin skin makes them absorb these pesticides, which can’t be completely washed off. Therefore, it’s healthier to opt for organic tomatoes.
Organic tomatoes are increasingly becoming popular due to their health benefits. A study by the Public Library of Science showed that organic tomatoes have a higher concentration of beneficial antioxidants compared to conventionally grown tomatoes.
8. Bell Peppers

Bell peppers, due to their non-protective outer layer, are highly susceptible to pesticide absorption. This is concerning as they are often heavily sprayed with pesticides in conventional farming. Therefore, it’s safer to opt for organic bell peppers.
Consumer demand for organic bell peppers is on the rise due to increased awareness about their safety and health benefits. According to the US Department of Agriculture, organic bell peppers have higher levels of beneficial antioxidants and vitamins compared to conventionally grown bell peppers.
9. Celery

Celery is another vegetable that absorbs a high amount of pesticides due to its high water content and thin skin. It’s almost impossible to wash off these pesticides, making it a food item you should always buy organic.
The trend of buying organic celery is growing due to increased awareness about its safety and health benefits. A report from the US Department of Agriculture revealed that organic celery has higher amounts of beneficial nutrients compared to conventionally grown celery.
10. Cucumbers

Cucumbers, being a high water content vegetable, tend to absorb pesticides very easily. These pesticides can’t be completely removed even after peeling. Therefore, it’s healthier to opt for organic cucumbers.
Consumer demand for organic cucumbers is growing due to increased awareness about their safety and nutritional benefits. According to the US Department of Agriculture, organic cucumbers have higher levels of beneficial nutrients compared to conventionally grown cucumbers.
As a mom of three busy boys, I know how chaotic life can get — but I’ve learned that it’s possible to create a beautiful, cozy home even with kids running around. That’s why I started Cultivated Comfort — to share practical tips, simple systems, and a little encouragement for parents like me who want to make their home feel warm, inviting, and effortlessly stylish. Whether it’s managing toy chaos, streamlining everyday routines, or finding little moments of calm, I’m here to help you simplify your space and create a sense of comfort.
But home is just part of the story. I’m also passionate about seeing the world and creating beautiful meals to share with the people I love. Through Cultivated Comfort, I share my journey of balancing motherhood with building a home that feels rich and peaceful — and finding joy in exploring new places and flavors along the way.


