All vegetables have a natural protective coating, but by the time the vegetable reaches the supermarket, it has been washed and rinsed several times, and the natural coating is long gone. Often, vegetables are coated with a thin layer of wax that replaces that protective coating. Wax prevents the growth of mold, protects the vegetables from bruising during transport, and makes it bright and shiny. The amount of wax is miniscule, but often, people like to remove it from vegetables before they're eaten. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Instructions
1. Fill a clean sink or basin with warm water. Add 2 tbsp. of baking soda and 1 tbsp. of lemon juice and stir to mix.
2. Soak the vegetables in the mixture for a few minutes. Scrub the vegetables gently with a soft-bristled brush to remove the wax.
3. Rinse the vegetables in clear water to remove the baking soda and lemon juice. Lay the vegetables on a layer of paper towels to dry. If wax remains on the vegetables, try soaking them for a few more minutes.
Tags: baking soda, lemon juice, protective coating