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Since 1995, an activist group, the Environmental Working Group, has released its so-called “dirty dozen” produce list which is largely connected to their fundraising efforts and perpetuates unsubstantiated food safety fears. There are numerous peer-reviewed studies that have shown their report negatively impact consumers since it discourages the purchase of any produce—organic or conventional. Their reports fail to point out that overall pesticide chemical residues found on fruits and vegetables are far below what has been scientifically deemed tolerable for human consumption.

In an effort to support facts, not fear, Markon encourages the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables both organic and conventional. The negligible pesticide residue does not pose a health risk according to federal safety standards—the real risk is in not eating your fruits and veggies. This is why we stand behind the Alliance for Food & Farming and their mission to provide science-based information on food safety and farming. Teresa Thorne, Executive Director of the Alliance for Food and Farming (AFF), which represents organic and conventional farmers of fruits and vegetables explains “It is time to stop calling non-organic forms of healthy fruits and veggies ‘dirty’ and perpetuating unfounded safety fears that may negatively impact consumers’ purchasing of both organic and conventional produce.” 

Members and operators are encouraged to purchase and serve both organic and conventional fruits and vegetables to suit your target customer base and personal ideologies. Feel free to contact Markon with any questions or visit safefruitsandveggies.com.

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