What is the method for removing wax from apples

The wax on the surface of apples can usually be removed by scrubbing with warm water, salt, baking soda, white vinegar, or specialized fruit and vegetable cleaners. The wax on the surface of apples is divided into natural fruit wax and artificial edible wax, which can be safely consumed after proper cleaning.

1. Rub with Warm Water

Soak the apple in warm water at around 40 ℃ for 1 minute, and gently rub the surface with a soft cloth. Warm water can soften some wax, and with physical friction, it can remove most of the artificial wax layer. This method is suitable for processing apples with smooth surfaces and thin wax layers. After cleaning, it is recommended to rinse off any residue with running water.

2. Rub with salt

Take a small amount of salt and sprinkle it evenly on the moist surface of the apple. Gently rub it in circles with your fingertips for 30 seconds. The physical friction of salt particles can effectively peel off wax and has a mild bactericidal effect. Pay attention to controlling the intensity to avoid damaging the skin, and finally thoroughly rinse off the salt with cold water.

3. Baking Soda Soak

Add 10 grams of baking soda per liter of water, soak the apples for 5 minutes, and then scrub them. The weak alkalinity of baking soda can decompose some wax components and has a significant effect on removing artificially synthesized wax. After soaking, rinse with running water for at least 30 seconds to avoid alkaline residue affecting the taste.

4. Soak apples in a 1:3 mixture of white vinegar and water for 2 minutes. Acetic acid can dissolve most edible wax. This method has a good effect on removing fruit wax, but may leave a slight vinegar smell. Sensitive individuals can use lemon juice as a substitute, and after treatment, rinse repeatedly with clean water.

5. Special cleaning agent

Select a fruit and vegetable cleaning agent labeled as "edible", dilute it according to the instructions, soak and clean it. This type of product contains surfactants that can selectively decompose wax, but it is necessary to ensure thorough rinsing. It is not recommended to use household cleaning agents such as dishwashing detergent, as there may be a risk of chemical residue. The natural fruit wax on the surface of apples is a protective layer secreted by the plant itself and does not need to be deliberately removed. Artificial edible wax is mostly made of insect glue or palm wax, which meets national food safety standards. Avoid using hard objects such as steel wire balls to scrape during daily cleaning. Apple wax stored in refrigeration will naturally solidify. It is recommended to leave it at room temperature before cleaning. For imported apples with thick wax, two cleaning methods can be combined, such as soaking in baking soda first and then scrubbing with salt. Special populations such as infants and young children are advised to peel or choose wax free apples that are certified organic.