It's no surprise that the number of people who are beginning to buy organic foods is increasing. In 2014, organic food sales increased by 11.3 percent, and it's been steadily growing over the past decade. It's set to continue to rise. If you're interested in jumping on the bandwagon and joining the organic movement, here are a few foods to begin your organic grocery list:

Apples

They've always said that you should eat an apple a day in order to keep the doctor away. Unfortunately, the one thing that people have always forgotten to tell you is that the apple should probably be organic. According to the USDA's Pesticide Data Program, traditionally grown apples can contain as many as 47 different pesticide residues that can be particularly damaging to your health. This is especially true when it comes to pregnant women and babies, as there are toxins that can directly damage reproductive and developmental organs. Six of the 47 are known or probable carcinogens, which mean that they have been linked to cancer.

Potatoes

Whether you are using potatoes to cut up and fry as French fries or you are going to use as a baked potato, it is imperative that you buy organic. Research from the USDA's Pesticide Data Program shows that conventional potatoes are at risk of having 35 pesticide residues – six of which are known or probable cancer-causing. Roughly 80 percent of the time, chlorpropham is the pesticide residue that is found. According to the Extension Toxicology Network, this particular pesticide is known for its ability to cause damage to the lungs, brain, liver and kidneys in animals.

Strawberries

Strawberries may be considered one of the most beneficial foods thanks to being rich in antioxidants. However, they definitely pose a health risk unless you decide to purchase them organic. According to the USDA Pesticide Data Program, traditionally-grown strawberries can have as many as 45 pesticide residues on them. One carcinogen in particular in captan, which is found more than 42 percent of the time, and has the potential to cause vomiting, diarrhea and cancerous tumors of duodenum, which is part of the small intestine. Some think that washing strawberries can remove the pesticide residue. Unfortunately, this may not be true. A professor from New York University has told the American Cancer Society that the little bumps on strawberries make it difficult to completely wash away the residue.

Whenever possible, research shows that you should buy apples, potatoes and strawberries organic. However, you shouldn't stop there. Expand your grocery list to contain even more organic fruits, vegetables and other food items. For more information, talk to a professional like Southtown Health Foods.