Shoppers are being urged to check the stickers on apples before buying, as a nutritionist warns that certain codes indicate the fruit is coated in synthetic wax and may contain harmful pesticides. Zib Atkins, a clinical nutritionist with 20 years of experience, says apples with codes starting with 3 or 4 are non-organic and coated in synthetic wax, which can be toxic and conceal pesticides.
Atkins advises looking for apples with codes beginning with 9, which signify organic produce and are safer to eat. He also recommends a simple home method to reduce pesticide residue: soak apples in a mixture of water and baking soda for 15 minutes, then scrub with a hard brush. This can remove up to 90% of surface pesticides.
In addition to apple advice, Atkins highlights foods for brain health, including dark chocolate. The late Dr Michael Mosley, who died last year, also endorsed dark chocolate, noting that two squares daily can reduce cardiovascular disease risk, improve LDL cholesterol, and enhance blood flow to the brain. Mosley cited studies of the Guna people, who drink unsweetened cocoa and have lower blood pressure.
