Can you eat the wax coating on apples? Myths and facts about food safety in India
While vigilance around food safety is important, it's equally crucial to distinguish between fact and fiction.
While vigilance around food safety is important, it's equally crucial to distinguish between fact and fiction.
While vigilance around food safety is important, it's equally crucial to distinguish between fact and fiction.
From bizarre claims to half-truths, social media is a constant stream of alarming and curious content about the food we eat. In an age where food has evolved from mere sustenance to a lifestyle, such information often causes unnecessary panic. Let’s unpack two of the most widely circulated concerns: the wax coating on apples and so-called ‘plastic vegetables.’
Can you eat the wax coating on apples?
Apples are among the most popular fruits in Indian markets, even though they aren't grown in every region. A frequent question that pops up among consumers is about the shiny layer on apples—can it be safely eaten, or is it harmful?
The truth is, apples naturally produce a thin layer of wax that helps preserve moisture and extend shelf life. However, this natural coating tends to wear off during post-harvest handling and transportation. To compensate, apple suppliers often apply a protective layer of food-grade wax to keep the fruit fresh for longer.
In India, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) permits the use of specific edible waxes such as carnauba wax (derived from the Brazilian palm), shellac (sourced from insects), and beeswax. These coatings are considered completely safe for consumption and do not need to be removed before eating.
Contrary to popular belief, these are not plastics or industrial waxes. They are approved additives, commonly used worldwide, to maintain the texture, appearance, and longevity of fruits during transport and storage.
It’s also worth noting that non-edible waxes are not legally permitted for use on fruits and vegetables in India. If you’re still concerned, washing the fruit under warm water or wiping it with a clean cloth can help reduce surface residues—but it’s not mandatory for safety.
The myth of plastic vegetables
In 2019, viral videos began circulating in India, claiming that plastic vegetables had entered local markets. The clips showed coloured liquids being poured into moulds to form realistic-looking vegetables. This sparked widespread concern about “fake” or “plastic” produce being sold to unsuspecting buyers.
However, these videos were not evidence of food fraud. They actually featured wax replicas used as display models outside restaurants in Japan—completely unrelated to any food being sold for consumption.
Similarly, alarmist messages about plastic cabbage, plastic rice, plastic eggs, and even plastic snacks like Kurkure have made the rounds on social media. These claims have been debunked multiple times by the FSSAI, which has clarified that such rumours are baseless and misleading.
Don’t fall for food fear mongering
While vigilance around food safety is important, it's equally crucial to distinguish between fact and fiction. Edible wax coatings on apples are safe and regulated. And as for plastic vegetables in your local market? That’s just a myth with no basis in reality.