Do They Put Wax on Pears? The Facts About Fruit Coatings

December 27, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the U.S. National Agricultural Library, many fresh fruits and vegetables, including pears, are washed and waxed after harvest to prevent premature rotting and extend shelf life. While pears have a natural wax coating, this layer is often removed during the cleaning process, necessitating the application of an artificial food-grade wax.

Quick Summary

Pears feature both natural and commercially applied food-grade wax coatings for preservation, moisture retention, and appearance. Commercially applied waxes are safe for consumption, but consumers can easily remove them for personal preference. The article details the types of waxes used, their purpose, and methods for removal.

Key Points

Natural and Commercial Waxes: Pears produce their own natural wax, which is often replaced with a food-grade commercial wax after washing to prolong shelf life.
Purpose of Commercial Wax: The applied wax prevents moisture loss, slows down ripening, and protects the fruit from damage during transport.
Edible and Safe: The commercial waxes used on pears are food-grade and regulated by agencies like the FDA, making them safe for consumption.
Removal Methods: The wax can be removed by washing the pear with hot water, a baking soda and vinegar solution, or by scrubbing with a brush.
Appearance vs. Freshness: While the glossy sheen of a waxed pear is for aesthetics, the wax's primary function is to preserve the fruit's freshness and quality.

The Dual Nature of Wax on Pears

Yes, pears have wax on them, and this is a completely natural part of their biology. As pears grow, they produce a thin, protective layer of natural wax, often called "bloom," which helps them retain moisture and protect against decay. However, this is not the only wax you will encounter. In the journey from the orchard to the supermarket, pears are washed to remove dirt, debris, and any pesticide residue. This washing process often strips away the fruit's natural wax, leaving it vulnerable to moisture loss and spoilage.

To compensate for this, commercial growers and packers apply a new, food-grade wax coating. This artificial layer serves the same protective function as the natural wax, ensuring the pears arrive on supermarket shelves looking fresh and glossy. While the commercial wax is not harmful, its presence can sometimes be a concern for consumers who may wonder about its purpose and composition.

Why are pears waxed commercially?

Moisture retention: The primary reason for applying commercial wax is to create a barrier that prevents the fruit from losing water. This is critical for maintaining the fruit's firmness and weight, and for preventing it from shriveling.
Extended shelf life: By controlling the fruit's respiration and slowing down the ripening process, the wax allows pears to be stored and transported over longer distances without spoiling. It also helps inhibit mold growth, further extending their fresh-looking state.
Protection during transport: The smooth coating protects the fruit from bruising and scratches during handling and shipping, ensuring it remains visually appealing for the consumer.
Enhanced appearance: The shiny, glossy finish of a waxed pear is considered more attractive to many consumers and can help distinguish premium produce.

What are commercial fruit waxes made of?

The waxes used on commercial fruits are safe for human consumption and are regulated by food safety authorities like the FDA. They are derived from various natural and synthetic sources. Some of the most common types include:

Carnauba Wax: Sourced from the leaves of a Brazilian palm tree, this is a very common, plant-based wax.
Shellac Wax: Derived from the secretions of the tiny female lac insect, this animal-based wax is also widely used.
Beeswax: Sourced from honeycombs, this is another natural animal-based wax.
Petroleum-based Waxes: These include paraffin wax and mineral oil, which are also considered safe when used as a food-grade coating.

Removing the wax from pears

While the wax is perfectly edible, some people prefer to remove it, either for personal preference or to clean the fruit more thoroughly. Here are a few simple and effective methods:

Hot Water Method: A quick and easy way is to dip the pear in a bowl of hot (but not boiling) water for 20-30 seconds. This will cause the wax to melt and rise to the surface. You can then rub the pear with a clean cloth or paper towel to wipe the wax off.
Baking Soda and Vinegar Wash: For a more comprehensive clean, fill a large bowl with water and add a few tablespoons of baking soda and a splash of distilled vinegar. Soak the pears for 5-10 minutes, then scrub gently with a vegetable brush and rinse thoroughly. This is also effective for removing pesticide residues.
Scrubbing with a Cloth: For a less intense cleaning, simply scrub the pear vigorously under running water with a clean cloth or vegetable brush. This will remove most of the surface wax.
Peeling: Of course, if you want to be certain the wax is removed, simply peel the pear before eating. This is the most effective method, although it removes the skin which contains valuable nutrients.

Natural vs. Commercial Wax Comparison


Feature	Natural Wax (Bloom)	Commercial Wax
Origin	Produced naturally by the pear itself.	Artificially applied by growers and packers.
Appearance	Often appears as a subtle, powdery or whitish film.	Gives the pear a distinct, high-gloss shine.
Function	Reduces moisture loss, provides natural protection.	Replaces natural wax lost during cleaning; enhances aesthetics and shelf life.
Safety	Perfectly safe and natural to consume.	Food-grade and regulated by agencies like the FDA.
Removal	Easily removed with a simple wash.	Requires more thorough cleaning methods like hot water or baking soda soaks.
Impact on Flavor	Does not alter the fruit's flavor.	Can be perceived as off-putting by some if not removed.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Waxed Pears

The presence of wax on pears is a completely normal and regulated part of the food production process. Pears begin with a natural, protective wax, which is later replaced with a safe, food-grade commercial version to maintain quality and extend shelf life after washing. For most consumers, a thorough rinse is sufficient, as the commercial waxes are deemed harmless by regulatory bodies. However, for those who prefer to eat a pear with no artificial coating, a simple wash with hot water or a baking soda solution will effectively remove the commercial wax. Ultimately, enjoying a healthy and delicious pear is the most important thing, and you now have the facts to make an informed choice about your produce.

For more detailed information on food safety and fruit production, the USDA National Agricultural Library website is an authoritative source..

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the commercial waxes applied to pears are food-grade, non-toxic, and regulated by food safety agencies like the FDA, making them safe for human consumption.

Pears naturally produce a protective wax, but it is often removed during cleaning after harvest. A food-grade commercial wax is then applied to replace it, preventing moisture loss, delaying spoilage, and improving appearance.

Many commercially grown pears will have a shiny, uniform finish, which is a strong indicator of a commercial wax coating. Unwaxed pears may appear more dull or have a slightly powdery 'bloom'.

A simple rinse with cold water may not remove all the wax, as it is designed to be water-resistant. However, using hot water or a baking soda and vinegar wash is highly effective at dissolving the wax coating.

Yes, organic pears can also be waxed, but the waxes used must adhere to organic standards. These are typically plant- or animal-based, such as carnauba wax or beeswax, and petroleum-based waxes are prohibited.

The wax itself is flavorless, but some people are sensitive to its texture or the feeling it leaves on the fruit's skin. Removing it can lead to a cleaner, more natural taste experience.

While some food-grade waxes can be petroleum-based (like paraffin), many are derived from natural sources such as carnauba palm leaves or beeswax. Federal regulations mandate that all such products be safe for food contact.