Shopping smart means choosing produce with lower pesticide exposure—even when you can’t always buy organic. Some conventional vegetables are surprisingly clean and safe, even compared to others on the grocery shelf.
Each year, the Environmental Working Group releases its Clean Fifteen—a list of the fruits and vegetables with the fewest pesticide residues in the US. While pineapple took the top spot in the 2025 ranking, another vegetable came in second and definitely deserves a place in your shopping cart.
Which popular vegetable ranked second on the list?
According to the latest Clean Fifteen™ from the Environmental Working Group, sweet corn—both fresh and frozen—now holds the No. 2 spot for lowest detectable pesticide residues in US produce. That means most samples showed minimal or no pesticide presence, even after washing.
The EWG ranking considers not only the number of pesticides found but also their estimated toxicity. Corn’s position reflects that it consistently tested among the safest produce items, with low residue levels and lower potential for chemical harm—ranking above bananas and cauliflower on that basis.
Other fruits and vegetables in the Clean Fifteen (2025)
These produce items also ranked among the lowest in detectable pesticide residues:
- Pineapple
- Sweet corn (fresh and frozen)
- Avocados
- Papaya
- Onions
- Sweet peas (frozen)
- Asparagus
- Cabbage
- Watermelon
- Cauliflower
- Bananas
- Mangoes
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Kiwi
Almost 60% of Clean Fifteen samples had no detectable pesticide residues, and only 16% had two or more. Corn and other top items often showed no more than three pesticides at very low levels.
Why sweet corn stands out as a smart, low‑risk choice
Sweet corn’s high ranking makes it an especially smart pick when organic options aren’t available. For shoppers looking to reduce pesticide exposure without extra cost, conventional corn proves a solid option.
Fresh corn is widely available in season, and frozen corn maintains similar safety in terms of pesticide residue. Whether you’re adding it to salads, soups, or simple side dishes, corn provides nutrition with less worry about chemical residue.
Because of its clean profile and versatility, sweet corn offers an affordable, year‑round option for people prioritizing their health without changing their shopping habits.
What are the benefits of eating sweet corn?
Beyond its low pesticide levels, corn brings impressive health benefits that go far beyond what many expect from this everyday grain. As a whole grain, it’s naturally rich in antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals that support several key areas of wellness. From digestion to vision and heart health, corn is more than just a sweet summer side dish.
Its high content of insoluble fiber plays a key role in supporting digestion. This type of fiber adds bulk to stool and helps food move more efficiently through the digestive system.
Corn is also rich in carotenoids like lutein and zeaxanthin, two antioxidants known to protect eye health. These compounds help reduce the risk of age-related eye diseases and contribute to the production of vitamin A—an essential nutrient for the retina, cornea, and other parts of the eye. Additionally, the carotenoids and potassium found in corn support heart health by lowering inflammation and helping regulate blood pressure and heart rhythm.
