Potatoes Added to 'Dirty Dozen' List Over Banned Herbicide

Concerns raised over pesticide residue on one of America's most popular vegetables

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:03pm

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The Environmental Working Group has added potatoes to its annual 'Dirty Dozen' list of produce with high levels of potentially harmful pesticide residues, citing the presence of the herbicide chlorpropham which has been banned in Europe since 2019 but remains approved for use in the United States.

Why it matters

The inclusion of potatoes on the 'Dirty Dozen' list raises concerns about the widespread use of pesticides on one of the most heavily consumed vegetables in the US, with potential health risks around blood and endocrine disorders. This adds to the ongoing debate around the efficacy and impact of the 'Dirty Dozen' list in guiding consumer choices.

The details

According to the EWG, 90% of potato samples tested positive for chlorpropham, even after being washed and scrubbed. Chlorpropham is used to prevent potatoes from sprouting after harvest, but has been banned in Europe since 2019 due to health concerns. While the US EPA still approves its use, experts warn that washing and peeling potatoes does not fully remove the pesticide residue.

  • Chlorpropham was first registered for use in the United States in 1962.
  • The European Union banned the use of chlorpropham in 2019.

The players

Environmental Working Group (EWG)

A health advocacy group that publishes an annual 'Dirty Dozen' list of produce with high levels of pesticide residues.

Dr. Cory Fisher

A family medicine physician at the Cleveland Clinic who commented on the health concerns around chlorpropham.

International Fresh Produce Association

An organization that has criticized the 'Dirty Dozen' list for scaring consumers away from 'safe, healthy and affordable' fruits and vegetables.

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What’s next

The US EPA will likely face increased pressure to review the approval of chlorpropham use on potatoes in light of the European ban and the inclusion of potatoes on the 'Dirty Dozen' list.

The takeaway

The addition of potatoes to the 'Dirty Dozen' list highlights the ongoing debate around pesticide use in agriculture and the need for more comprehensive regulation to protect public health, while also emphasizing the importance of choosing organic produce when possible to minimize exposure to potentially harmful chemicals.