Just by pouring hot water over an apple, you can tell whether it’s a safe apple or one that contains harmful preservatives.

Why does pouring hot water on an apple help detect “toxic” apples?

Most apples are covered with a layer of wax. To check whether an apple contains dangerous preservatives, try pouring some freshly boiled water over it. After a short while, you’ll see a waxy layer appear — these are the apples that can be harmful to your health.

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How does the wax coating on apples affect human health?

Everyone knows that apples are one of the fruits richest in vitamins and are recommended by nutritionists for daily consumption.

However, what’s concerning is that most apples currently sold on the market are reported to be coated with wax and preservatives.

Apples naturally have a thin, protective wax layer. But to extend the fruit’s “shelf life,” people often spray or coat them with an additional protective layer of wax.

Many companies produce wax made from natural ingredients such as beeswax, carnauba wax, shellac, or fatty acids — all of which are safe for health. However, these natural preservatives are quite expensive.

As a result, many small traders or growers use synthetic wax coatings that contain fungicides, antibacterial agents, preservatives, and artificial dyes to make the fruit look more attractive and last longer.

Yet, industrial coloring and chemical preservatives can damage memory, weaken the immune system, and cause respiratory issues if a person is exposed to them.

There is also ongoing debate about whether wax coatings can cause cancer in people exposed to them.

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How to remove the wax layer from apples

For apples bought at markets, there’s no guarantee they’re coated only with natural wax — especially when the price seems average. Therefore, to ensure safety for your family, besides buying apples from reputable suppliers, you should follow these steps to eliminate as many harmful substances as possible before eating:

Step 1: Put the apples into a small basin. Add one tablespoon of baking soda, one tablespoon of lemon juice, and some warm water.

Step 2: Roll the apples evenly in the mixture. Then use a soft toothbrush to gently scrub the apple skin to remove the wax coating.

Remember: even after cleaning, it’s best to peel the apples before eating.

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How to use and store apples safely and properly

• Buy apples from reputable import stores, trusted brands, or large supermarkets. Avoid buying from street vendors or unverified sellers with unknown origins.

• When you bring apples home, if you plan to eat them immediately, wash them thoroughly before peeling. After peeling, to prevent browning, soak the apple slices in warm water mixed with a little lemon juice. This helps the apples retain their color, freshness, and flavor for hours.

• If you want to store apples for several days, wrap them in perforated plastic bags, seal tightly, and keep them in the refrigerator’s cool compartment.

Note: Chinese apples are usually round, smooth, and glossy, often wrapped in foam mesh. If you look closely after removing the foam wrap, you may notice fine white powder or thin white films on the skin — these are residues formed by the evaporation and condensation of chemical preservatives.