Oman: Ministries to analyse chemical coating on fruits
The Ministry of Health (MoH), in collaboration with Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries (MoAF), has started a study to analyse the chemicals used in the coating.
Though wax on fruits and vegetables are Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there are apprehensions about their safety.
Dr Samia al Ghannami, director of nutrition, MoH, said, “I believe these waxes are used for superficial reasons. Most consumers think shiny fruits and vegetables are of superior quality to those that look dull.”
The substances used are mostly carnauba wax, candellia wax and shellac. These waxes are hydrophobic and tend to block the pores found on produce, preventing water escaping from within. “The chemicals used could be pesticides or other harmful substances which might cause ailments and we need to be sure before eating,” she said.
Dr Samia said that MoH in collaboration with MoAF has started a study to analyse the chemicals used in the coating. “We are carrying out laboratory tests. The process will take about a month’s time and then we would have proper data on this,” she added. “If the study reveals that it contains harmful substances, we would bring it to the notice of the Public Authority for Consumer Protection (PACP) for necessary action.”
According to FDA instructions, the supermarkets displaying such products must have a notice warning about the coating. However, it is not seen in many countries, including Oman.
Dr Samia said that if these coatings are used on fruits and vegetables they must meet FDA food additive regulations. “We are following the FDA regulations. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry also follows these instructions, besides adhering to Codex regulations,” she said.
Codex is an international body that sets guidelines on nutrition labelling. In the US, it is required by federal law to label fruits that have been waxed so that people know that the produce is coated. “If there are no labels, vegetarians and Muslims would not know about the presence of animal wax. So the study is undertaken to know if such products are fit for human consumption,”
As of now, her advice to consumers is, “Rinse fruits and vegetables with water and if possible with little vinegar before consumption or peel the skin. You can also avoid buying such products altogether.”
Source: muscatdaily.com
