Why they’re a problem: Domestic, conventional versions of these greens sometimes contained a mix of pesticides: pyraclostrobin, a fungicide; cyfluthrin, a pyrethroid pesticide (these have been linked to cardiovascular disease-related deaths); and chlorpyrifos, a highly toxic OP, in a relatively small number of samples, especially mustard greens.
Key takeaway: The EPA has banned chlorpyrifos for use inside homes since 2000, but it is still used on some crops.
Better choice: Organic kale and mustard greens. Broccoli also posed a very low risk and has similar nutritional benefits. Fresh spinach was of moderate risk, making it a better choice too. Lettuce was low-risk.
