Have you ever noticed the shiny, polished appearance of apples in the grocery store, almost as if they have a protective layer? This coating feels waxy on the apple skin and is hard to rinse off.

This sheen is attributed to the waxy coating applied to apples. What is this waxy substance, its origin, and does it pose any health concerns?

Understanding the Waxy Coating on Apples:
The natural wax found on apples serves as a protective layer, preserving the fruit’s freshness and preventing moisture loss. This wax is crucial for maintaining the apple’s crisp texture and vibrant appearance, making it more visually appealing to consumers.

Just-picked produce, including apples, actually produce a natural wax coat all on their own to help prevent them from drying out and becoming mushy. Before these products are delivered to markets for sale, they are washed and rinsed of dust and chemical residues, but about half of the original wax coating is lost during this cleaning process. As a result, FDA-approved edible coating or wax is added to make sure that produce is protected during transport, storage, and sale, to hinder the growth of mold, as well as to make them look more appealing and appetizing. What’s more: only a few drops of the edible wax is applied to your apple to provide a microscopic coating.

Types of Waxes on Apples:
There are two primary types of wax used on apples: natural wax and food-grade synthetic wax. Natural wax is produced by the apple itself as a protective barrier against environmental factors.

In contrast, food-grade synthetic waxes, such as carnauba or shellac wax, are applied post-harvest to enhance the fruit’s appearance. Synthetic waxes may be obtained from insects (e.g. beeswax and shellac) or plants (e.g. carnauba wax and candelilla wax). These waxes, as kinds of food additives, have been evaluated by the Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives, an international food safety authority and are considered that their uses in foods are not of safety concern.

Health Concerns:
While the presence of wax on apples might raise eyebrows, it’s essential to note that these waxes are considered safe for consumption. Regulatory bodies, including the FDA and European Food Safety Authority, have approved certain food-grade waxes for use on fruits. These waxes are inert and do not penetrate the fruit’s flesh, ensuring they remain on the surface.

Washing Apples:
To minimize exposure to any residual wax and potential contaminants, it’s advisable to wash apples thoroughly before consuming. Simple rinsing under cold, running water and scrubbing it with a brush or knife can help remove surface residues. If you’re still not comfortable with the wax on the skin, simply peel off the skin before eating.

Conclusion:
The waxy coating on apples is a natural and safe part of the fruit’s defense mechanism. While food-grade synthetic waxes may be applied post-harvest, they are strictly regulated to ensure consumer safety. So, the next time you bite into a crisp, shiny apple, rest assured that the waxy coating is a friend, not a foe, contributing to the fruit’s appeal and freshness.