Are Apples Still Coated in Wax? Separating Fact from Myth

December 26, 2025 •

3 min read

According to the U.S. Apple Association, apples have been waxed commercially since the 1920s to prevent moisture loss and preserve freshness. This practice raises questions for many consumers, leading to the central question: are apples still coated in wax today?

Quick Summary

Apples are naturally coated in a protective wax, which is often removed during cleaning after harvest. A food-grade wax is then applied to replace it, extending shelf life, retaining moisture, and improving appearance. Both the natural and added waxes are safe for human consumption and regulated by food safety authorities.

Key Points

Natural vs. Added Wax: All apples produce a natural wax, but commercial apples are coated with a food-grade wax to replace the natural one removed during cleaning.
Extended Shelf Life: The added wax helps retain moisture and slows down respiration, keeping apples fresh, crisp, and firm for longer.
Safe for Consumption: Food-grade waxes, such as carnauba and shellac, are approved by regulatory bodies and are indigestible, passing through the body harmlessly.
Easy to Remove: If desired, the added wax can be easily removed by scrubbing the apple under warm water with a vegetable brush or a baking soda solution.
Organic Apples are Unwaxed: Consumers seeking unwaxed fruit can opt for certified organic apples, which are not coated with additional waxes after harvest.
Not a Pesticide Indicator: Viral videos showing wax peeling off in hot water do not reveal pesticides but rather a harmless reaction of the wax cracking due to heat.

All Apples Have a Natural Wax Coating

Apples naturally develop a protective layer of wax, known as "bloom," composed of fatty acids and other compounds. This natural coating helps maintain moisture, firmness, and protects the fruit from external factors. The amount of natural wax varies by apple variety.

The Post-Harvest Washing Process

After harvesting, apples are washed to clean them, but this process also removes the natural wax. Without this protective layer, apples would dehydrate and spoil more quickly.

Why and How is Wax Added?

To compensate for the loss of natural wax and extend shelf life, a thin, food-grade coating is applied to apples. This serves to retain moisture, protect against mold and bruising, and enhance visual appeal.

Types of Food-Grade Waxes Used

Approved food-grade waxes, primarily from natural sources, are used, though some synthetic types exist. Common examples include carnauba wax from palm trees, shellac from lac bugs, and beeswax. Some conventional apples might use refined petroleum-based waxes that meet food-grade standards.

Debunking the Myths: Is Apple Wax Safe?

Food-grade wax on apples is safe for consumption and approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA. It is indigestible and passes through the body harmlessly. The amount of wax is minimal. Contrary to some claims, a white film appearing when an apple is exposed to hot water is the wax reacting, not evidence of pesticide residue. Washing is recommended for surface dirt and bacteria, but the wax itself is not a health concern.

How to Remove Wax from Apples

While safe to eat, you can remove the wax if preferred. Methods include scrubbing under warm water with a brush, soaking in a warm water and baking soda solution, which research shows is effective for removing surface residues, or briefly dipping in boiling water followed by scrubbing.

Waxed vs. Unwaxed Apples: A Comparison


Feature	Waxed Apples	Unwaxed Apples (Organic)
Appearance	Shiny, glossy finish.	Duller, sometimes milky or hazy film (natural bloom).
Shelf Life	Extended, due to reduced moisture loss.	Shorter; more susceptible to shriveling and spoilage.
Texture	Crisper for longer, due to retained moisture.	May soften more quickly over time.
Safety	Added food-grade wax is safe to consume.	Natural wax is also safe to consume.
Availability	Common in conventional supermarkets and most retailers.	Available at farmers' markets, specialty stores, and organic sections.

The Final Crunch on Apple Wax

Yes, many apples are still coated in a safe, food-grade wax after their natural wax is removed during cleaning. This practice is regulated and helps preserve freshness and appearance. Organic apples are not given added wax coatings. Understanding apple waxes allows consumers to enjoy their fruit with confidence, whether they choose to remove the coating or not. The wax contributes to the apple's journey from orchard to table, helping it stay fresh.

More information on natural fruit coatings and food science.

Conclusion

In summary, the wax on supermarket apples is a safe, food-grade coating replacing the natural wax lost during washing. It is harmless and not an indicator of contamination. This protective layer is essential for maintaining apple freshness, firmness, and appeal. Knowing about natural and added waxes allows you to enjoy apples confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, the food-grade wax applied to apples is perfectly safe to eat. It is approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA and is indigestible, meaning it passes through your system without being absorbed.

After apples are harvested, they are washed to remove dirt and debris, which also removes their natural, protective wax coating. A thin layer of food-grade wax is applied to replace it, preventing moisture loss, delaying spoilage, and maintaining crispness during transport and storage.

No, certified organic apples are not coated with additional food-grade waxes after harvest. Any waxiness on their surface is the apple's naturally occurring 'bloom,' which is safe to consume.

Food-grade waxes used on apples are typically derived from natural sources, including carnauba wax from palm trees, shellac from lac bugs, and beeswax. Some conventional apples may use highly refined petroleum-based waxes.

You can effectively remove the wax by scrubbing the apples under warm running water with a vegetable brush, or by soaking them in a warm water and baking soda solution for about 15 minutes before scrubbing and rinsing.

Most people cannot taste the thin layer of wax on apples, as it is flavorless and odorless. However, some individuals might notice a slightly different texture, which is why they may prefer to remove it.

Washing apples with a baking soda solution has been shown to effectively remove surface pesticide residues. The viral claim that hot water reveals pesticides is false; it simply makes the harmless wax crack and become more visible.