Identifying Chemical-Treated Apples

Kathmandu. The fruits available in the market nowadays, however bright and attractive they look, raise many questions about their purity and safety. Especially apples, considered very beneficial for health, are currently in discussion due to chemicals and wax. 

The saying 'An apple a day keeps the doctor away' is true only when the apple is pure and natural. 

Most of the time, we blindly buy red and shiny apples from the market. However, those apples may contain artificial wax, chemical polish, or harmful substances added to prevent spoilage for a long time, which can cause serious harm to our health. On the other hand, natural or local apples, although they may look a bit dull or less shiny, are much safer and more nutritious.

There are some easy ways to know if the apple you are buying is natural or chemically treated. First of all, the apple can be identified by its shine. Very shiny apples are often coated with wax, while natural apples are slightly dull. Similarly, if the apple feels greasy when rubbed by hand or if a white layer comes off, it is a sign of wax.

Another effective way to check this is by using lukewarm water. If a white layer floats on the surface of the water when the apple is dipped in lukewarm water, it is clear that wax or chemicals have been applied.

Besides, natural apples have a sweeter taste and are more fragrant, but apples treated with chemicals have very little fragrance. If the inside of the apple looks very shiny or unnatural when cut, one should be cautious, as natural apples are normal and light-colored from the inside.

It is absolutely necessary to take some precautions before eating apples brought from the market. Apples should not be eaten directly by biting; they should always be washed thoroughly before eating. Washing them with lukewarm water mixed with salt or baking soda is the safest method.

Since most apples available in the market are coated to make their outer appearance attractive, if you suspect wax, peeling the skin and eating is the best option from a health perspective.