Radiant organic oranges; Eosta's solution

Non-organic citrus fruit is usually treated with a wax coating of shellac after harvest. This coating extends the shelf life, provides extra protection during transport and storage and gives the fruit a shiny appearance.  However, there are health and ethical drawbacks to this coating.

Shellac for non-organic citrus fruits

In Europe, non-organic citrus fruit is usually waxed with shellac (E904), often combined with oxidised polyethylene (E914), a synthetic wax.

Shellac comes from the secretion of the lacquer peeler. Although not harmful, the alcohol in which it is dissolved can be. Moreover, chemical pesticides are often used in wax production. And workers in shellac factories usually do not earn a decent wage.

Oxidised polyethylene (E914) is made from substances derived from the petrochemical industry.

Another disadvantage of a wax coating is that pesticide residues, from pesticides used during cultivation, are sealed onto the peel. Even after thorough washing, these residues remain on the peel.

Challenge for organic oranges

For organic fruit, post-treatment with shellac is prohibited. Which presents a challenge for organic oranges from South Africa.

For both organic and non-organic oranges from South Africa, a so-called cold treatment is mandatory to undo any negative impact of insects. The disadvantage of this is that it can cause spots on the fruit. These are not harmful and do not cause spoilage, but do make the fruit look less attractive. And the eye also eats ...

The shellac wax coating makes non-organic oranges more resistant to this treatment. However, this wax is not permitted for organic fruit. Nor does it fit in here given the disadvantages mentioned above.

Eosta has come up with a solution to still be able to protect its organic oranges from South Africa.

Eosta's solution

Eosta has found a plant-based alternative as a wax coating for organic oranges from South Africa. This natural protective coating prevents staining, is 100% responsible and approved for organic fruit. Moreover, as organic fruit is free from harmful pesticides, there is no risk of sealed pesticide residues. 

Double benefit, then: organic fruit without harmful chemicals and without unsightly spots, thanks to a plant-based protective coating.

Discover our organic oranges

Would you like to learn about our plant waxed, organic oranges? For more information, contact your account manager, or reach us at the general number or email address below.