One of the reasons why apples and other produce are coated with wax is for the sake of preservation. The waxes and substances used (carnauba wax, candellia wax, and shellac) help keep produce crisp by preventing the loss of moisture; pretty much, the waxes used (which are hydrophobic--that is, they don't mix with water) block the pores (stomata and lenticels, to be more precise) found on produce, preventing water found within the produce from escaping.

Frankly, I also believe that these waxes are used for superficial reasons: when people see shiny fruits and vegetables, most consumers tend to think that these fruits and vegetables are more superior--better quality--to those that have dull surfaces.

These waxes are supposed to be safe for consumption. If are not convinced of this, you may want to rinse your produce with a little bit of vinegar in addition to water before eating. Or could try purchasing your produce at a farmers' market. Much of the produce that is sold at these markets have been locally grown, and are not subjected to wax treatments.
Source(s):
http://www.usapple.org/consumers/wax.cfm
http://www.indusladies.com/forums/healthy-foods/20937-is-wax-coating-apples...


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