Not Bananas! These Are the 2 Naturally "Clean" Fruits With Almost No Pesticides – Nutritious, Delicious, and Often Overlooked at the Market

When it comes to fruit, most people immediately think of a rich source of vitamins essential for good health. However, few realize that fruit can also pose a hidden risk if pesticide residues remain due to improper farming practices.

Every year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) in the United States releases its "Clean Fifteen" list, identifying fruits and vegetables with the lowest pesticide levels—meaning they have little to no residue after proper washing and are safe for consumption.

Many people assume bananas rank high on this list of clean fruits. Surprisingly, bananas are not among the Clean Fifteen. Instead, two familiar, homegrown fruits from Vietnam—papayas and avocados—have been honored by the EWG for their natural "cleanliness." These two fruits are not only safe but also delicious, nutritious, affordable, and perfect for everyday summer meals.

The 2 Naturally "Clean" and Nutritious Fruits You Shouldn't Overlook

1. Papaya: A Natural Shield That Protects Against Pesticides

Papayas are widely grown throughout Vietnam and are also a valuable export product. Besides their sweet taste and vibrant color, papayas boast a thick skin that acts as a natural barrier, preventing pesticides from penetrating into the fruit’s flesh.

According to EWG experts, about 80% of papaya samples tested showed no pesticide residue at all, making papayas one of the cleanest and safest fruits to consume daily.

Beyond their safety, papayas are nutritional powerhouses, loaded with vitamin C, vitamin A, fiber, and folate. They help boost immunity, support digestion, enhance skin health, and even aid in weight management. You can enjoy papayas fresh, blended into smoothies, or made into healthy desserts.

Important tips when eating papayas:

• Avoid eating unripe papayas raw: Green papayas contain latex, which can irritate the stomach or cause uterine contractions—particularly dangerous for pregnant women.

• Eat in moderation: Ripe papayas are high in natural sugars. People with diabetes or those on strict weight loss diets should watch their portions.

• Choose naturally ripened papayas: Avoid chemically ripened fruits, as they may contain harmful residues.

• Don't eat on an empty stomach: Papayas are rich in digestive enzymes like papain, which can cause discomfort or stomach rumbling when eaten without other foods.

2. Avocado: The World’s Cleanest Fruit

Interestingly, avocados rank No. 1 on the EWG’s Clean Fifteen list, with less than 1% of samples showing pesticide traces. Thanks to their thick, tough skins, avocados naturally shield the creamy flesh inside from contamination.

Besides being incredibly clean, avocados are highly nutritious. They are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, dietary fiber, vitamin K, vitamin E, and folate. Avocados are an excellent choice for dieters, those seeking radiant skin, or anyone looking to add healthy fats to their meals.

You can enjoy avocados in smoothies, salads, sandwiches, or even use them as a base for sauces and natural beauty treatments.

Important tips when eating avocados:

• Don't overeat: Despite being a healthy fat, avocados are calorie-dense—an average avocado can contain over 300 calories. Eating too many can lead to unwanted weight gain.

• Limit intake if you have liver issues: Because avocados are high in fats, people with weak or chronic liver conditions should consume them cautiously and consult a doctor if needed.

• Be mindful when pairing avocados with sweetened condensed milk: A popular eating style in some regions, but it adds a lot of sugar and calories, which may counteract your health or weight-loss goals.

• Watch for allergic reactions: Although rare, some people allergic to latex or bananas may also react to avocados. Pay close attention if eating avocado for the first time.