In today's markets, it's common to see fruits and vegetables carrying small stickers — usually showing a brand name or barcode. Most people casually remove these stickers, rinse the produce, and consume it without giving it a second thought. But the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has now issued a public advisory explaining why that practice may not be enough — and how it can even pose health risks.

🚫 Why Just Washing Isn't Safe

In a video shared on social media, FSSAI explained that simply washing stickered fruits and vegetables is not sufficient. Here’s why:

• Sticker adhesives are not edible: These glues may remain on the skin even after washing, and can be harmful if ingested — especially for children, the elderly, or those with weak immune systems.
• Wax coating traps chemicals: Many fruits and vegetables are coated with wax and preservatives to keep them looking fresh during transport. If a sticker is on top, both the wax and glue may enter your system if the produce isn’t peeled.
• Surface chemicals build up: Pesticides, dust, and preservatives often accumulate more on surfaces where stickers are applied.

✅ FSSAI’s Recommendation: Peel Whenever Possible

FSSAI clearly recommends:

• Peel stickered fruits and vegetables before eating them, especially if they are waxed or coated.
• Thorough washing is essential, but not a complete safeguard when stickers or wax are involved.
• When you’re outside or traveling and can’t clean produce thoroughly, opt for peeled options to reduce your risk.

🍎 Which Produce Should You Be Cautious With?

While not every fruit or vegetable requires peeling, be extra cautious with those that often come with stickers and wax coatings, such as:

• Apples
• Pears
• Mangoes
• Cucumbers
• Imported citrus fruits
• Bell peppers

🛡️ Final Tip:

If you must eat the skin (like in cucumbers or apples), make sure to scrub well under running water, use a vegetable brush, and check that no sticker residue or wax remains.