Are Waxed Apples Safe For Health?

Almost all apple varieties form a natural layer of wax on the skin. It serves as protection against predators such as insects and against drying out. With longer storage and increasing maturity, the layer intensifies and becomes thicker. It can be consumed without any health concerns. For example, the Jonagold apple variety has a fairly pronounced natural waxy layer, while apple varieties such as Elstar, Boskop, or Cox Orange have a high acid content and therefore form a less pronounced natural layer. Fruit growers can apply an artificial layer of wax to these after harvest.

In Germany, apples are generally not waxed, while goods from other EU countries or other states may have such an artificial layer of wax. These fruits may be sold in this country provided that it is clear to the consumer that the wax layer has been applied artificially. In the case of organic goods, however, treatment with wax is prohibited. As with the natural wax layer, the consumption of the artificial wax layer is also harmless to health.

Because consumers prefer untreated apple varieties, the private label almost exclusively sells apples that have a natural layer of wax. The only exception is the Ambrosius variety, which, depending on its origin, is equipped with an artificial protective layer. The fruits are of course marked accordingly.

If you still want to remove the natural or artificial wax layer, you should wash the apples thoroughly under running water. Then wipe the fruit with a kitchen towel to remove the dissolved wax. Alternatively, waxed apples can of course also be peeled, but many valuable nutrients are concentrated directly under the peel.

Is the wax on apples harmful?

Waxed apples can be recognized by the note “waxed”. The “artificial waxing” is harmless to health. It is best to wash apples with warm water and rub them thoroughly with a cloth.

Are Sprayed Apples Healthy?

The skins of vegetables and fruit that we buy in the supermarket can therefore be contaminated with pesticide residues. Their consumption in large quantities can be harmful to health. There are maximum values in the EU that must not be exceeded.

Why do apples get greasy?

They feel greasy in the hand, one would like to remove the layer as it seems artificial. But is she really? In fact, almost all apple varieties form a natural layer of wax on the skin. It serves as protection against predators such as insects, for example.

Where does the shine in apples come from?

Almost all apple varieties naturally form a more or less thick layer of wax. This keeps the apples from drying out and protects them from insect infestation.

How do you get the wax off the apples?

So that the wax is completely removed, you first sprinkle the fruit with baking powder. Then you drip the juice of half a lemon over it and rub it in thoroughly with the mixture. Then wash the apple with lukewarm water. Finished!