Via this step-by-step guide you can remove the following from fruits/vegetables
A) carnauba wax (derived from the leaves of the Brazilian palm tree)
B) shellac (a resin secreted by the lac bug)
C) Pesticides
D) Herbicides
1. **Rinse under running water:**
Start by rinsing the fruits/vegetables under cool, running water. This will help remove any loose wax or debris.
2. **Use a brush or cloth:**
Gently scrub the surface of the fruits/vegetables with a soft brush, sponge, or cloth. This can help dislodge any remaining wax or residues.
3. **Soak in vinegar solution:**
Mix one part vinegar with three parts water, soak the fruits for 5-10 minutes, and then rinse thoroughly. This can help break down the wax, but it's important not to soak the fruits for too long, especially for delicate fruits.
4. **Use mild soap or baking soda (optional):**
If you want to be more thorough, you can use a mild dish soap or a mixture of baking soda and water. Apply the soap or baking soda solution with a brush or cloth, scrubbing the fruit/vegetable surface. Rinse thoroughly under running water to remove any soap or baking soda residue.
5. **Peel or cut (optional):**
If you are still concerned about wax residues, consider peeling or cutting the fruits/vegetables. This is a more drastic measure but can be effective.
Remember that these methods are generally safe for most fruits/vegetables.
However, some fruits/vegetables have more porous surfaces, so the wax may be absorbed to some extent.
Always follow the specific recommendations for washing and handling provided for each type of fruits/vegetables, especially if you're dealing with delicate varieties.