Is fruit waxing harmful to the human body?

Fruit waxing is usually harmless to the human body, and compliant use of edible wax will not harm health. The wax on the surface of fruits mainly includes two types: natural fruit wax and artificial edible wax, both of which meet food safety standards. The natural fruit wax on the surface of fruits is a protective layer secreted by plants themselves, which can prevent water loss and microbial invasion. It is commonly found in fruits such as apples and pears. Artificial edible wax is extracted from natural materials such as palm and beehive, and is approved by the state for fruit preservation, such as cordyceps and Brazilian palm wax. This type of wax is not absorbed in the human body and is excreted through metabolism. Waxed fruits sold through legitimate channels will strictly control their usage, and consumers can remove most of the surface residue by rinsing or peeling with clean water. In rare cases, illegal use of industrial wax may pose health risks. Industrial wax contains heavy metals or mineral oil components, and long-term intake may damage the liver and nervous system. If you find that the fruit wax layer is abnormally sticky, has a pungent odor, or if you experience symptoms such as nausea and abdominal pain after consumption, you should immediately stop eating and seek medical attention. It is recommended to purchase through regular supermarkets when making a purchase, and avoid choosing fruits with overly shiny surfaces or abnormally high prices.

When consuming waxed fruits in daily life, it is recommended to rub them with running water for more than 30 seconds, or soak them in a small amount of edible alkali before rinsing. Sensitive groups such as children and pregnant women can prioritize organic fruits or skinless consumption. Maintaining dietary diversity and moderate intake of different types of fruits can help reduce the risk of single food safety while obtaining more comprehensive nutrients.