Are Those Stickers on Commercially Sold Apples Really Edible?
Introduction
The question of whether stickers on commercially sold apples are meant to be edible has sparked debate among consumers. This article explores the facts behind these stickers, their purpose, and whether they are truly safe to eat.
Global Perspective on Edible Stickers
The labeling practices for commercially sold fruits like apples can vary greatly across different regions. In Canada, for instance, many consumers believe that the stickers are edible based on an episode they watched. However, this may not be accurate.
According to food safety regulations in the United States, any material applied to food that is normally consumed, such as the peel of an apple, must be safe to eat. This includes waxes and coatings, as they are intended to protect the fruit and enhance its appearance and shelf life. However, for foods where the peel is not typically consumed, such as bananas and citrus fruits, these coatings may not need to be edible.
Code of Identification
The stickers on apples, peaches, and other fruits often carry a 4-digit code known as the Price Look-Up (PLU) code. This code is used by cashiers to identify the product during checkout, serving as an alternative to barcodes. These codes are not meant to be edible or even particularly appetizing.
Material and Safety of the Stickers
While the stickers on apples are made of food-grade plastic, they are not inherently edible. This means that they are safe to ingest in small quantities. However, the plastic used is not designed for consumption, and licking or eating the sticker would not be appetizing.
Despite this, the adhesive and coating used on these stickers are typically made from safe materials. Cornstarch, for example, is often used as a binding agent, and the paper is food-safe. Some consumers choose to wash the stickers off before consumption, while others leave them on, as the taste and feel of the sticker do not significantly impact the eating experience.
Current Practices and Consumer Behavior
Many consumers have the habit of removing the stickers while washing their fruit. This practice extends to other fruits as well, such as pears, bananas, and tomatoes. Stickers on these fruits must be composed of completely edible materials, including paper, ink, and adhesives. These materials are chosen to ensure that the stickers pose no risk to consumer health if accidentally ingested.
Some consumers have even tasted the edible stickers. According to several reports, these stickers are made of a tiny piece of paper with cornstarch as the adhesive. Consumers either eat the stickers or simply remove them before eating, as they do not taste or leave any sensation in the mouth.
Conclusion
While stickers on commercially sold apples and other fruits are made of food-grade materials and are generally safe to eat, they are not designed for consumption. Consumers often remove these stickers due to preference or habit, rather than necessity. The edible nature of these stickers ensures consumer safety, but their taste and texture make them generally inedible and unappetizing.