A leading UK nutritionist has issued a stark warning to shoppers about the small stickers found on apples, revealing that the codes they carry can indicate the presence of pesticides and synthetic waxes.
The Hidden Language of Fruit Stickers
Zib Atkins, a clinical nutritionist with twenty years of experience who describes himself as the "UK's No.1 Longevity Creator", explains that the numerical code on a produce sticker, known as a Price Look-Up (PLU) code, holds crucial information. If the code begins with the number 3 or 4, it signifies the apple is non-organic.
Atkins, who is passionate about helping people unlock their full physical and mental potential, clarifies a further concern. He states that such apples are typically "coated in synthetic wax." The problem, he warns, is that this artificial coating "can be toxic and is concealing all the pesticides that have been sprayed over that apple."
How to Identify the Safest Choice
The expert advises consumers to actively seek out apples with PLU codes that start with the number 9. A code beginning with 9 confirms the fruit is organically grown and, therefore, a much safer option, free from synthetic coatings and grown under stricter pesticide regulations.
For those unable to buy organic, Atkins offers a practical method to reduce potential contamination. He recommends creating a simple cleaning solution by mixing a teaspoon of baking soda into a couple of litres of water. Soaking apples in this mixture for 15 minutes, then scrubbing them with a stiff brush, can remove up to 90% of surface pesticides.
Brain-Boosting Foods to Add to Your Basket
While selecting your apples, Atkins suggests considering other nutrient-dense foods for optimal brain health. In a separate post, he highlights several key items to add to your shopping trolley.
- Walnuts
- Spinach
- Dark Chocolate
- Avocado
- Sardines
"Your brain is an energy-hungry organ. Feed it with nutrient-dense, omega-rich and antioxidant-powered foods," he advises.
This recommendation for dark chocolate is supported by the late Dr Michael Mosley. In an episode of BBC Radio 4's Just One Thing, Dr Mosley explained that the flavonoids in cocoa can improve cardiovascular health, lower LDL cholesterol, and enhance blood flow to the brain. He cited studies of the Guna people in Panama, whose high consumption of unsweetened cocoa was linked to stable blood pressure and longevity.
Dr Mosley noted that just two squares of dark chocolate (with high cocoa content) can provide benefits, making it a simple dietary swap for milk or white chocolate varieties.
