When it comes to feeding your family, buying organic may often be the safer and healthier option. But splurging at the supermarket on these items can really break the bank sometimes.

So which fruits and veggies should you always buy organic -- and which ones are safe enough to get away with?

Bryce Wylde, the host of "Wylde on Health" and alternative health expert, gives you the lowdown on which fruits and vegetables you should always buy organic and which ones you can get away with due to their lower pesticide levels.

Either way, aim for 10 - 12 servings of fruits and vegetables per day.

The Dirty Dozen

Fruits in the "dirty dozen" contain pesticide residue and are heavily sprayed due to high levels pest. The list includes:

  • Apples
  • Peaches
  • Cherries
  • Nectarines
  • Strawberries
  • Pears
  • Grapes (imported)
  • Bell Peppers
  • Celery
  • Carrots
  • Kale
  • Lettuce

The Clean 15

Fruits and vegetables that are included in the "clean 15" are not generally threatened by as many pests.

  • Avocado
  • Kiwi
  • Mango
  • Papaya
  • Pineapple
  • Watermelon
  • Asparagus
  • Broccoli
  • Cabbage
  • Eggplant
  • Onion
  • Tomatoes
  • Sweet corn
  • Sweet peas
  • Sweet potato

Other grocery shopping tips:

  1. It's important to look for a USDA or Canada Organic Regime icon. These are seals of approval by both the American and Canadian boards. It's still very much a buyer beware environment out there so it's important to have a conversation with your grocer or learn to do your own due diligence. If you're unsure or you don't trust your grocer, ask for proof.
  2. People actually have a misconception that the "safer" foods are those with thicker skin. But it's really what the little pests, organisms and/or fungus or bugs like. Mango, for example, has a thick skin and it is pretty clean. The same goes for eggplant and cabbage. By contrast, kiwi skin is not so thick. But it is still relatively clean because it doesn't attract as many pests.
  3. Peaches apples, bell peppers and strawberries in particular should be watched simply because they're not only easily permeated but because pests love them. Grapes and carrots should also be bought organic and carrots are an example of a thicker-skinned vegetable that really appeals to the pests.
  4. The cost of buying organic is certainly is a lot more. In fact, it's often about 300 per cent more or even upwards of that figure. For instance, regular berries will cost you perhaps two bucks and you can pair it with cereal or oatmeal. However, if it's organic it could cost upwards of seven to eight dollars.
  5. Buying organic is even more important when it comes to choosing dairy products or meat. If cows are eating non-organic grass which is fertilized that can really accumulate in their fat tissue. It's more condensed and even more dangerous.