Dirty Dozen List of Pesticide -Contaminated Produce

/in , /by

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has unveiled its highly anticipated annual Dirty Dozen report, which serves as an essential guide that ranks fruits and vegetables by pesticide residue levels. This report is grounded in thorough data gathered from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, thereby providing consumers with valuable insights into the produce they might choose to include in their diets.

Dirty Dozen List

The 2026 list reveals a concerning lineup of fruits and vegetables that are most likely to carry significant pesticide residues:

1. Spinach

2. Strawberries

3. Grapes

4. Peaches

5. Apples

6. Blueberries

7. Cherries

8. Nectarines

9. Kale, collard greens, and mustard greens

10. Potatoes

11. Pears

12. Blackberries

Remarkably, nearly all conventionally grown produce samples tested positive for detectable pesticide residues, which underscores the extent of the problem.

In addition, this year’s report highlights the pervasive presence of PFAS, commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.” These substances are known for their durability in the environment and the human body. Among the findings, one pesticide was noted for its frequent occurrence across samples, especially in peaches and plums, raising concerns about its safety.

Clean Fifteen

On a more positive note, the EWG also compiles a separate list, known as the Clean Fifteen, that identifies fruits and vegetables with the lowest pesticide levels. Among these safer options are avocados, sweet corn, and pineapples, which typically contain little to no detectable pesticide residues.

Summary

Experts emphasize that, regardless of whether fruits and vegetables are organic or conventionally grown, they are safe to consume when handled properly. In fact, the numerous health benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables significantly outweigh any potential risks from pesticide exposure. To further mitigate these risks, consumers are encouraged to wash their produce thoroughly under running water. Additionally, opting for frozen or canned alternatives may also be a sensible choice.

Ultimately, making informed decisions and maintaining a well-balanced diet rich in diverse produce is crucial for overall health and well-being.

Provided by Cleary Insurance, Inc. This content is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice.

War in Iran Is Driving Costs Up -Here Are Ways to Save

/in , /by
Presented by: Matthew Clayson
Aimee Ortiz
March 13, 2026

The widening war in Iran is now in its third week, and American consumers are already feeling the effects of rising gasoline prices, with the price of food and other essentials likely to follow. For consumers already reeling from inflation and a cooling job market, the fallout from the war presents another financial challenge. Even if the conflict were to end today, economists warn, the economic impact is likely to linger.

We reached out to some experts for advice consumers could follow to minimize the impact on their pocketbooks.

At the Gas Pump

With the average cost of gasoline reaching $3.598 Thursday, according to AAA data, drivers searching for ways to save have a few options.

Reducing highway speeds by 5 to 10 mph can increase fuel economy by as much as 14%, said Aixa Diaz, a AAA spokesperson. That’s because the fuel economy for most cars peaks at around 50 mph before dropping off.

Excessive idling can also waste gas, she said, as can driving with low tire pressure.

“If your tire pressure is low, your car’s going to be working harder, and then you’re just wasting fuel,” Diaz said.

Drivers should remove any extra weight from their vehicles, Diaz said. If you’re still lugging around furniture that you keep meaning to donate but never do, now is the time to finally drop it off, she said.

And Diaz encouraged drivers to sign up for gas-station rewards programs to earn points for discounts on fuel purchases. At the pump, she said, drivers should skip premium-grade gas, which is more expensive, in favor of regular gas, if their vehicle takes it — and most do.

Many vehicle owners’ manuals recommend premium gas, but “recommended and required are two different things,” Diaz said, adding, “Most cars are perfectly fine with just regular gasoline.”

On the Road

Gas prices are typically higher in the spring and summer, when more people drive, but the conflict in the Middle East has accelerated the seasonal ascent, Diaz said.

Drivers planning a road trip can make use of free travel tools, such as AAA’s TripTik, which shows gas stations, electric vehicle charging stations, hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, and attractions along planned routes. One benefit, Diaz said, is it keeps drivers on track, avoiding detours that can burn more gasoline and lead to unnecessary spending. The motor club also offers a gas-cost calculator that can estimate your car’s fuel costs.

Apps like Waze use real-time traffic data to direct drivers to the shortest (and therefore the most efficient) routes. And the GasBuddy app directs drivers to the cheapest gas near them.

Diaz said drivers also should be mindful of where they spend their money on road trips. Often, gas stations near highway exits are more expensive than those a few miles away. If you have enough gas, it may be worth driving a few more minutes to find a better price.

Snacks add up, too. Avoid gas station convenience stores, Diaz said, and instead stock up on treats at your local grocery store before your trip even begins.

At Home and the Grocery Store

Rising oil prices affect virtually all goods, not just at the gas pump.

“Anything that you buy that gets delivered by truck is going to be more expensive because diesel’s gone up,” said Daniel Burnside, a clinical professor in finance at the University of Rochester’s Simon School of Business.

Burnside said there are simple ways to save money.

That could mean taking public transportation instead of driving, washing your clothes in cold water to save on energy costs, cutting back on subscriptions you don’t use, or delaying purchases of anything you don’t really need, he said.

Describing the drive to save money as “an evergreen problem,” Burnside said, “You could use all the techniques that worked last week, it’s just now it seems more urgent because all of a sudden all your costs are going up.”

 

c.2026 The New York Times Company

This New York Times article was legally licensed by AdvisorStream

Information from third parties may be proprietary, privileged, and/or confidential; any use, copying, retention, or disclosure is strictly prohibited. Securities and investment advisory services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, LLC, Member SIPC. The views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and may not accurately reflect those of MML Investors Services or its affiliated companies. Local firms are sales offices of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), and are not subsidiaries or affiliates of MassMutual, MML Investors Services, or their affiliated companies.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Home Maintenance Tips for Spring

/in , /by
By Travelers Risk Control

The milder days of spring are a perfect time to do a thorough spring cleaning and perform home maintenance. After a long winter, it is a good idea to take preventive measures to help maintain your home and property year-round. Tasks such as cleaning out your gutters, checking for dead trees and branches, and cleaning and inspecting home mechanical and plumbing systems, such as heating and air conditioning equipment, can help make spring a season of safety.

Somebody should do the cleaning and maintenance of your home, both inside and out. Although the tasks are different, checking whether all the elements of your home are in good working order can help keep your family safe and your maintenance expenses lower in the long run.

Home maintenance inside your home

Here are a few things inside your home that somebody should inspect to determine if they are in good condition:

  • Electrical outlets and cords: Check throughout your home for potential fire hazards, such as frayed wires or loose-fitting plugs. Extension cords and power strips are not intended to be permanent fixtures and should be used only temporarily.
  • Fire extinguishers: Check your fire extinguisher at least once yearly, including the hose, nozzle, and other parts, to ensure they are in good condition and that the pressure gauge is in the “green” range. Check the expiration date. If necessary, move your fire extinguisher to an accessible location so you can reach it easily in an emergency.
  • Air conditioning: Check around the unit for indications of leaks. Before turning it on for the season, have your air-conditioning system inspected and tuned up by a professional. Check the drain lines annually and clean them if they are clogged. Change the air filter.
  • Water heater: Check for leaks and corrosion. Check your owner’s manual for any recommended maintenance.
  • Furnace or boiler: Have your furnace or boiler cleaned or inspected annually.
  • Under sinks and around toilets: Look for any signs of leaks or corrosion on pipes, supply lines, and fixtures.
  • Plumbing: Check exposed pipes and valves in your basement or crawl spaces, if safely accessible, for signs of leaking or corrosion.
  • Appliances: Check supply lines for washing machines, ice makers and water dispensers, refrigerators, and dishwashers for signs of leaks or wear and tear.
  • Plumbing for hose spigots and irrigation systems: After opening outdoor water supply valves, be sure to inspect components for leaks. Don’t forget to check inside plumbing as well as outdoor spigots.
  • Dryers: Dryer lint can build up inside the vent pipe and collect around the duct. Clean both the clothes dryer exhaust duct and the space under the dryer. Use a brush to clean out the vent pipe. Look for lint buildup around the lint trap and clean it as needed
  • Smoke detectors: Daylight savings time is a good time to change the batteries in your smoke detectors. Inspect each smoke detector to ensure they are in working order, and test them monthly. Ideally, there should be at least one smoke detector on each floor of your home, including outside of each bedroom, and one within each bedroom itself.
  • Light bulbs: Check each light bulb in every fixture to ensure the recommended wattage and replace any burned-out bulbs.

Home maintenance outside your home

The cold winter months can also damage your house. Here are a few things outside your home that should be inspected to ensure they are in good condition:

  • Roof: Check for any damage from snow or ice, and make any necessary repairs to reduce the possibility of leaks. If you have a skylight, check outside for a buildup of leaves and debris. Also, check the indoor ceiling for signs of leaks. Remember to put safety first any time you are on a roof. If you have any doubt, leave it to the professionals.
  • Gutters: Clean leaves and other debris from gutters and downspouts to keep water flowing and reduce the possibility of water damage.
  • Trees: Visually inspect trees for damage or rot, and remove (consider hiring a licensed professional) any dead trees that might blow over in heavy winds or during a storm. Keep healthy trees and bushes trimmed and away from utility wires.
  • Lawn equipment: Make sure lawn mowers, tractors, and other equipment are tuned up before using. Store oil and gas for lawn equipment and tools in a vented, locked area.
  • Walkways and driveways: Repair any cracks and broken or uneven surfaces to provide a safer, level walking area.

A little home maintenance in the spring can go a long way toward keeping your home safe and secure throughout the rest of the year. Learn more about Travelers homeowners insurance products, or if you’re ready to take the next step, get a quote from us!

Spring Risk Check: 5 Things Every Business Should Inspect

/in , /by

As winter transitions to spring, conducting thorough spring risk checks becomes crucial for business owners. The end of winter presents an excellent opportunity to assess one’s property and operations for potential damage or safety hazards arising from snow accumulation, ice buildup, and freezing temperatures. This is particularly important following an extreme winter season, where the potential for damage increases significantly.

During this inspection, business owners should carefully examine the property for signs of structural damage, such as roof leaks or weakened infrastructure from the weight of snow and ice. It’s also vital to evaluate outdoor areas for potential hazards, such as icy walkways or unstable parking lots.

Additionally, reviewing operational equipment for any weather-related impairments—such as machinery exposed to freezing conditions—can help prevent malfunctions that could lead to costly repairs or downtime. Implementing a proactive seasonal inspection strategy not only helps in minimizing the risk of costly claims but also promotes a safer work environment for employees and customers alike. By addressing these issues promptly, business owners can ensure a smooth transition into the warmer months while protecting their investment and their workforce.

1. Roofs and Gutters
Look for missing shingles, leaks, or clogged gutters that could lead to water damage.

2. Parking Lots and Walkways
Repair cracks, potholes, or uneven surfaces to reduce slip-and-fall risks.

3. Exterior Lighting
Ensure parking areas, walkways, and entrances are well-lit and safe.

4. Equipment and Vehicles
Schedule maintenance for machinery and commercial vehicles affected by winter conditions.

5. Safety Procedures
Review workplace safety practices and confirm your insurance coverage still fits your operations.

Spring risk checks can go a long way in protecting your employees, customers, and business from preventable risks.