Understanding Why Apples are Waxed
Before tackling the question of whether to remove it, it's helpful to understand why wax is on apples in the first place. Apples naturally produce a thin, waxy coating, often called "bloom," to protect themselves from moisture loss and dehydration. This natural wax contains compounds like ursolic acid, which may offer minor health benefits.
However, during the journey from the orchard to the grocery store, apples are washed to clean away dirt, leaves, and pesticides. This process strips the apple of its natural wax, which is crucial for preserving its freshness. To replace this protective layer and extend shelf life, commercial food-grade wax is applied.
Is the Commercial Wax Safe to Eat?
For most consumers, the wax coating on apples is perfectly safe. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations require that any coating used on fruits and vegetables be food-grade and safe for human consumption. The most common types of wax used include carnauba wax, derived from the leaves of a Brazilian palm tree, and shellac, a natural resin from the lac bug.
These waxes are indigestible, meaning they pass through your digestive system without being absorbed. Concerns about toxic or cheap petroleum-based waxes are largely unfounded, as regulated food-grade waxes are strictly controlled. However, the primary health risk isn't the wax itself, but what might be trapped beneath it or clinging to its surface, such as bacteria and pesticide residues.
The Real Reason to Wash Your Apples
Even if the wax is harmless, a thorough wash is crucial for food safety. Unwashed produce can carry a variety of contaminants picked up during growing, harvesting, and transportation. Here’s a list of potential hazards:
- Harmful Bacteria: Pathogens like E. coli, Salmonella, and Listeria can attach to the surface of fresh produce, leading to foodborne illness.
- Pesticide Residues: While waxes can trap some chemicals, a proper wash is essential for removing residual pesticides from the surface, especially on conventionally grown apples.
- Dirt and Debris: Visible and invisible dirt, sand, or other matter from the field and packing house can cling to the fruit.
- Handling Contaminants: A significant amount of contamination can occur from repeated handling by various individuals in the grocery store.
How to Effectively Wash Apples and Remove Wax
For those who dislike the texture or simply prefer to remove the commercial wax, several effective methods exist. Here is a simple, proven technique:
- Prepare a Soaking Solution: Fill a large bowl with water. Add two teaspoons of baking soda and a splash of lemon juice or distilled vinegar. The baking soda creates a mildly alkaline solution that is very effective at breaking down the wax and removing pesticides.
- Soak and Scrub: Submerge the apples in the solution and let them soak for 15 minutes. For best results, use a clean vegetable brush to gently scrub the surface of each apple to loosen any dirt and wax.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After scrubbing, rinse the apples under cool running water. Avoid using dish soap, as porous foods can absorb it and make you sick.
- Dry Completely: Pat the apples dry with a clean cloth or paper towel. This final step helps remove any remaining bacteria.
The Nutritional Upside of Keeping the Peel
Most of an apple's nutritional value, including much of its fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins, is concentrated in or just under the peel. By peeling an apple, you lose a significant amount of these beneficial compounds, such as quercetin, which has neuroprotective properties. Research has also shown that apple peels have up to four times the antioxidant capacity of the flesh. So, if you want to maximize your health benefits, keep the peel—just make sure it's clean!
Natural vs. Commercial Apple Wax: A Comparison
| Feature | Natural Apple Wax (Bloom) | Commercial Food-Grade Wax |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Naturally produced by the apple | Applied after harvest to extend shelf life |
| Composition | Complex mix of esters and compounds like ursolic acid | Derived from carnauba, shellac, or candelilla |
| Purpose | Protects the apple from moisture loss and pathogens as it grows | Replaces natural wax lost during washing; enhances appearance |
| Safety | Perfectly safe and natural | FDA-approved and safe for consumption, but may carry surface contaminants |
| Appearance | Often appears as a cloudy, powdery film | Creates a shiny, glossy finish |
Conclusion
Ultimately, whether you remove the wax from apples is a personal choice, as the food-grade coating is perfectly safe to eat. However, the more critical step for your health is a thorough wash, not just of the wax but of any surface contaminants like pesticides and bacteria. By taking a few moments to properly clean your apple, you can safely enjoy the numerous health benefits that come with eating the peel. For more information on food safety and handling, consult the USDA's guide to washing produce.
