Shiny apples might give you ulcers

An apple a day keeps the doctor away. It may not be the case with imported apples. Pavitra Kumar, a receptionist, noticed a powder like material coming out of apples, that she bought paying extra money as it had been imported, while peeling its skin off.

She later found out that it was actually the wax coated on apples to preserve them.

Imported fruits and vegetables come with shellac and carnauba coatings which give them a sheen and many consumers prefer to buy them thinking that it is a sign of quality. 
Wax is applied on fruits and vegetables before cold storing them. It will help seal in moisture and therefore extends the storage life and minimize weight loss.  The wax coating make the imported fruits look fresh, even though they are more than one month old. It also prevents the mould growth and protects them from decaying.

The food industry spokespersons argue that the wax coating is not unsafe. “Wax coating gives the fruits wholesomeness and keeps them fresh.  It helps them remain   unspoiled even after months of harvest. And it is not harmful,” says Keshava Murthy, marketing manger, Hopcoms.

When it comes to vegetables, there are less chances of wax coating as most of the vegetables are grown in the state. “However, we don't coat vegetables with wax. Because they are home grown. Only imported fruits like apples, pears and peaches are given wax coating,” he adds.

But doctors have a different opinion. They say that wax coating may cause some health problems. Dr Arwind Jagdish, consultant physician, BGS Global hospital says, “Wax coating used on vegetables and fruits are not safe. It will lead to mild reactions like nausea, stomach upset and food poisoning. And if consumed it on a regular basis, it will lead to ulcers and gastric problems.”

“One should rinse the vegetables and fruits with warm water to remove wax coating completely,” he adds.