As of February 2017, Red Rich Fruits will no longer be applying a wax coating to our apples.

While wax on apples is standard in Australia, and entirely safe to consume; we welcome the change in specifications, and the opportunity to supply fresh fruit with as few steps between tree and table as possible.

Waxed Apples: Frequently Asked Questions

• Why is wax added to apples?
• Are waxed apples harmful?
• Why are Red Rich Fruits going wax-free?
• What does this mean for you?
• Where can I find out more?

Why is wax added to apples?

Apples develop a natural coating of wax as they grow; which protects the fruit, helping to retain moisture and crispness. As soon as they’re picked, the apples are cleaned to remove debris and comply with rigorous food safety and hygiene standards. This happens through a washing and brushing process, which also removes the natural wax layer. A small amount of food-grade wax is therefore often applied to apples, giving them greater shine and protection.

Are waxed apples harmful?

Waxed apples are safe to eat. There are two main types of wax on apples in Australia: shellac, and carnauba wax. Both are approved for consumption as food additives in Australia by Food Standards Australia and New Zealand (FSANZ). They are also widely used in a range of other foods, such as chocolate and confectionary; both in Australia and around the world. They are often referred to on packaging as glazing agents 903 (carnauba) and 904 (shellac).

Why are we going wax-free?

At Red Rich Fruits, we believe in supplying fresh fruit with as few steps between tree and table as possible; to ensure you receive the best quality, freshness, and flavour possible, every time.

Wax on apples became popular in Australia primarily because they looked a lot more appealing than unwaxed apples, which can appear dull. Our washing and brushing process, however, still produces a lovely gloss; while our apples still taste as delicious, and contain the same nutrients when ‘naked’, as an apple with added wax. When our retail partners proposed new specifications embracing apples with no added wax, we therefore welcomed the opportunity to work with them to supply our apples wax-free, just as nature intended.

What does this mean for you?

• Naturally ‘naked’ apples, with no added wax coating.
• An attractive gloss produced purely by washing and brushing.
• The same superior freshness, quality, and flavour, you’ve come to expect from Red Rich Fruits.

Where can I find out more?

• For a full list of frequently asked questions and information relating to added wax on Australian apples, please visit the Apple and Pear Australia Limited (APAL) website.
• Find out more about Red Rich Fruits’ apple range.
• Still have questions? Please feel free to contact us.