Eat Clean, Live Green

In the lush rhythms of Costa Rica, nature offers more than beauty—it offers wisdom. As we observe how the rainforest sustains life with balance and simplicity, we’re reminded to nourish ourselves in the same way: clean, organic, and mineral-rich.

Clean eating isn’t about trends—it’s about returning to the basics. It means choosing whole, unprocessed foods that come from the earth, not a lab. In Costa Rica, we’re fortunate to have abundant access to fresh produce, local markets, and farm-to-table options. But it’s not just about freshness—it’s also about nutrient density.

Minerals like magnesium, zinc, and selenium are vital to everything from energy production to immune function. Yet, modern diets often fall short. Soil depletion and chemical farming have stripped much of our food of its natural mineral wealth. This is where organic eating becomes essential. Organic farming supports soil health, resulting in food that’s naturally richer in minerals—and free from harmful pesticides.

By eating like nature intended—simple, seasonal, and mineral-rich—we not only nourish our bodies, but also align with a lifestyle that supports the land we call home. Clean eating isn’t a rulebook—it’s a relationship. And in Costa Rica, nature has set the table beautifully.

CLEAN 15
When choosing what to buy organic, start with the “Clean 15” and “Dirty Dozen”—lists that highlight which fruits and vegetables carry the most pesticide residues.

In Costa Rica, the local Clean 15 typically includes:

1. Pineapple
2. Papaya
3. Avocado
4. Mango
5. Passionfruit
6. Watermelon
7. Plantain
8. Sweet corn
9. Cabbage
10. Onions
11. Bananas
12. Melons
13. Cassava
14. Cucumbers
15. Yuca

2024 Dirty Dozen (US data)

1. Strawberries
2. Spinach
3. Kale, Collard, and Mustard Greens
4. Grapes
5. Peaches
6. Pears
7. Nectarines
8. Apples
9. Bell and Hot Peppers
10. Cherries
11. Blueberries
12. Green Beans