Tag: Wax coating

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), nearly 90% of conventional citrus samples tested positive for fungicides like imazalil and thiabendazole, some of which are hormone disruptors. This raises a critical question for many consumers: are non-organic lemons safe to use? The short answer is yes, with proper precautions, they can be a safe and affordable option.

While apples produce their own natural wax to protect them from moisture loss, many commercial varieties are coated with an additional layer to maintain freshness and enhance their appearance. This process leads many observant Jews to question: Is wax on apples kosher?

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), food-grade carnauba wax is recognized as a safe food additive. This natural plant-based wax, derived from the leaves of the Brazilian carnauba palm tree, is widely used as a glazing and coating agent in many products you eat. Despite its prevalence in the food industry, many wonder: can the body digest carnauba wax?

Did you know that apples produce a natural wax coating all on their own while growing on the tree? This natural defense is removed during the cleaning process after harvest, which is why apples are covered with wax again to restore that protective barrier.

Over 90% of fresh produce, including the crunchy root vegetable jicama, receives a food-grade wax coating after harvesting. This common practice is a vital step in the modern food supply chain, and understanding why jicama is coated in wax reveals the secrets to keeping it fresh for longer.

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), conventionally grown apples consistently rank on their 'Dirty Dozen' list due to high pesticide residues. This stark fact highlights a key reason **why shouldn't we eat apple skin**, prompting a closer look at the potential risks and important safety considerations alongside its known nutritional benefits.