Every year, the Environmental Working Group updates two lists to foster pesticide awareness: The Dirty Dozen and Clean 15. The Dirty Dozen list displays fruits and vegetables ranking high in pesticide loads, while the Clean 15 list highlights fruits and vegetables ranking low in pesticide levels. These lists are developed with research-based results and identified by the Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration. The guide is based on tested results from more than 43,000 samples of produce that are tested after they have been prepared for general consumption. The purpose of these lists is to elevate consumer awareness and help them reduce their exposure to toxic pesticides. It is recommended to choose the organic varieties for foods listed under the Dirty Dozen list to diminish pesticide intake levels.