The natural wax vs. commercial coatings
Apples produce their own layer of natural wax, known as "bloom," which serves as a protective barrier against moisture loss, bacteria, and mold. This bloom is responsible for the slightly cloudy or dull appearance of an apple picked fresh from the tree. However, after harvest, apples are washed and brushed to remove dirt, pesticides, and other debris. This process inadvertently strips away the natural wax, leaving the fruit vulnerable and unappealing to consumers who prefer shiny produce.
To compensate for the loss of the natural coating, fruit packers apply a new, food-grade wax. This re-application is critical for several reasons: it restores the protective barrier, extends the fruit's shelf life, and enhances its visual appeal. The added layer prevents the apple from shriveling, helps retain its crispness and moisture, and protects it during long-distance transportation.
The insect origin of some apple wax
While some food-grade waxes applied to apples are plant-based, the surprising answer to the question "What is the wax on apples from bugs?" lies with the coating known as shellac. Shellac is a resinous secretion produced by the female lac bug, Kerria lacca. These bugs, native to forests in India and Thailand, secrete the resin onto tree branches to protect their eggs. The resin is then harvested, purified, and processed into the food-grade glazing agent labeled as E904. While the harvesting process may collect insect secretions and insects together, purification largely removes the insects themselves. The finished shellac product is a refined and safe substance. This differs from plant-based waxes like carnauba wax, which comes from the leaves of a Brazilian palm tree.
Comparison of food-grade apple waxes
To understand the difference, a comparison of the primary types of waxes used is helpful:
| Feature | Shellac (Lac Bug Wax) | Carnauba Wax (Plant-Based) | Natural Apple Wax ('Bloom') |
|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | Secretion from female lac bug | Leaves of the Brazilian palm tree | Secretion from the apple's epidermal cells |
| Source | Insect | Plant | Apple Fruit |
| Primary Use | Post-harvest commercial coating | Post-harvest commercial coating | Pre-harvest natural protection |
| Appearance | Produces a very shiny finish; can turn milky in high humidity | Creates a glossy finish; more stable across humidity and temperature | Dull, powdery, or cloudy finish |
| Composition | Refined resin secreted by bugs | Waxy esters from palm leaves | Esters, fatty acids, and triterpenoids |
| Purpose | Extends shelf life, enhances shine | Extends shelf life, enhances shine | Prevents moisture loss, protects fruit |
Is the insect-derived wax safe to eat?
The consumption of food-grade shellac is considered safe by major food safety authorities, including the FDA. The human digestive system cannot break down waxes, so they pass through the body without being absorbed. This is true for shellac, carnauba wax, and the apple's natural bloom. For most, shellac poses no health risk. However, vegans often avoid shellac due to its animal origin. They can choose unwaxed, organic, or specifically labeled plant-based coated apples.
How to tell if your apple is waxed
Identifying the exact wax type is difficult, but a very glossy finish indicates a commercial wax coating. Unwaxed apples, including many organic varieties, typically appear duller or matte. While brushing can add a slight shine, a deep, uniform gloss usually signifies a food-grade coating. Labels or inquiries with your grocer can confirm if fruit is unwaxed.
What to do if you want to remove the wax
Though not medically necessary as the wax is edible, some prefer to remove it. These durable coatings are resistant to cold water. A common method involves using a soft brush and lukewarm water to gently scrub the apple. Soaking and scrubbing with a mixture of water and lemon juice or baking soda can also help. Peeling removes the wax but also many nutrients in the skin. Purchasing unwaxed apples from farmers' markets or specific stores is often the easiest option.
Conclusion
The gleaming finish on supermarket apples is due to practical, safe coatings designed to preserve freshness and ensure quality. Part of the answer to "What is the wax on apples from bugs?" is shellac, a refined secretion from the lac bug, approved and widely used in foods. Whether from an insect, a plant, or the apple itself, the consumed wax is safe. Unwaxed options are available for those with specific dietary needs or preferences. These coatings are vital to the food supply chain, and any bug-related component is processed to be entirely safe for consumption.
For more information on the safety of food coatings, see the USApple's guide on the topic: Apples and Wax Backgrounder.
