Are Cucumbers Covered In Wax? Danger!

Question:

Are Cucumbers covered in wax?

Why are they so shiny? My girlfriend thought it was the most ridiculous question ever! Well, I didn’t… and look who’s laughing now. Nevermind, now I’m single.. …and on to the answer!

Answer:

Yes, Non-organic Cucumbers are covered in wax.

Yes, Its OK to eat the wax.  The wax used must be of food grade which is FDA approved to be used on produce.

Reasons For Waxing Cucumbers

In general, wax is used to increase the shelf life, aesthetically make the produce look more appealing, and as protection. Fruit waxing is actually quite common, sometimes the process even includes dyes.  More information on fruit waxing.

Waxed Fruits

Commonly waxed produce also include the following:

• Cucumbers
• Bell peppers
• Eggplant
• Potatoes
• Apples
• Lemons and Limes
• Oranges

Cucumber Wax Solutions:

*Non-organic Cucumbers are covered in wax.

1. Peel off the cucumber skin. OXO Good Grips Swivel Peeler
2. Rinse Cucumber wax and dry. Eat the cucumber skin.
3. Remove the cucumber wax. Scrub it with some baking soda.  Arm & Hammer Baking Soda Unscented Box, Boxed 1 Lb.

Test Your Friends

Cucumber Test 1: It seems like stupid question to ask but its surprising to see how many people don’t know the answer.  Try it out sometime!  Ask someone you know if cucumbers are covered in wax and find out just how much useless information they really know.

Cucumber Test 2: Next ask them if cucumbers are a vegetable.  Wrong! They are fruits!

If you enjoy interesting facts like these or have an interesting fact of your own feel free to share it with us in the comments.  Who knows, maybe we can feature it on the site.