WAX ON FRUITS AND VEGETABLES:
It is common practice to apply wax on
fruits and vegetables to help protect them from damage and preserve their
freshness during transport and storage. Waxing helps to reduce moisture loss,
prevent bruising, and protect the surface of fruits and vegetables from dirt,
insects, and other contaminants.
NATURUAL WAX:
The wax used in food production is
typically made from natural substances such as beeswax or carnauba wax, which
are considered safe for human consumption. However, some concerns have been raised
about the potential side effects of consuming waxed fruits and vegetables.
IS WAX HARMFUL TO
HEALTH?
While there is no evidence to suggest
that eating waxed fruits and vegetables is harmful to human health, some people
may experience digestive symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, and cancer if they consume excessive amounts of wax. This is because the body is unable to
digest wax, and it passes through the digestive system undigested.
WAX COATING ON APPLE:
The wax coating on apples is typically made of food-grade materials such as beeswax or carnauba wax, which are considered safe for consumption by regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The wax coating on apples is used to protect the fruit from moisture loss, prevent bruising and decay, and to enhance its appearance. Sometimes heavy waxing for appearance leads to health issues.
However, it is important to properly wash apples before consuming them, especially if they have a wax coating. Washing can help remove any dirt, debris, or surface bacteria or viruses that may be present on the surface of the fruit, including any wax residue. Additionally, it is recommended to peel the skin off of apples if you are concerned about any potential contaminants that may be present on the surface.
STEPS TO HANDLE WAXED FRUITS AND VEGETABLES:However, consuming waxed fruits and
vegetables can be harmful if proper precautions are not taken. Here are some
steps to avoid infections while eating waxed fruits or vegetables:
Wash thoroughly:
Before consuming waxed fruits or
vegetables, wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or
debris. This will also help to remove any surface bacteria or viruses that may
be present on the wax.
Peel off the wax
layer:
If possible, peel off the wax layer
before eating the fruit or vegetable. This will ensure that you do not consume
any wax or any bacteria or viruses that may be present on the wax.
Use a vegetable
brush:
Use a vegetable brush to scrub the
surface of the fruit or vegetable before washing it. This will help to remove
any wax or dirt that may be present on the surface.
Store properly:
Store waxed fruits and vegetables in a
cool, dry place to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold. Avoid storing them
in humid environments, as this can promote the growth of bacteria.
Cook thoroughly:
If you are unsure about the safety of
a waxed fruit or vegetable, cook it thoroughly before consuming it. Cooking
will destroy any bacteria or viruses that may be present on the surface.
By following these steps, you can
reduce the risk of infections while consuming waxed fruits and vegetables.
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