18 Everyday Produce Items You Must Peel or Avoid

5. Apples — Peel when concerned about residues or wax coatings

Peel to remove wax and surface residues; otherwise wash vigorously. Apples are commonly waxed to improve shelf life and shine, and testing has found measurable residues on many samples. A firm scrub under running water with a produce brush helps remove some residues and soft wax, but peeling removes most surface materials altogether. If you choose to peel, keep the peel for cooking—many recipes welcome the extra fiber and flavor—or compost peels when possible to avoid waste. For older adults on a budget, a practical compromise is to buy conventional apples, scrub them well, and peel only when eating them raw and whole. Store apples in the crisper drawer away from strong-smelling foods; this preserves texture and helps them last longer, stretching your grocery spend.

6. Grapes — Buy organic or rinse with care

Prefer organic if you eat grapes often; otherwise rinse thoroughly. Grapes are small and have thin skins that testing often flags for residues, so removing surface contaminants by rinsing is a must Because peeling is impractical, choosing organic packs when grapes are a frequent snack is a sensible option for those who can manage the extra cost. A practical rinse technique uses a colander under cool running water while rubbing clusters gently to detach residues and debris. For older adults watching the budget, buy conventional grapes when on sale and plan to rinse immediately before eating to preserve fruit quality. Freeze surplus grapes for quick, slushy snacks or to add to smoothies; frozen grapes stay nutritious and offer a different texture that many older adults find refreshing and hydrating.