Vegetables that store poorly, like cucumbers, are the types typically waxed. The wax prevents moisture loss from the cucumber during transport and in the days leading up to purchase, but it also gives the cucumber an unnatural glossy green sheen.
Wax is most often applied to apples, cucumbers, lemons, limes, oranges, other citrus fruit, bell peppers, eggplant and potatoes, although other types of produce also could be coated. Since the coating is perfectly edible, there's no need to worry about removing it before eating.
According to the Food and Drug Administration, many vegetables grow their own natural waxlike coating. However, this comes off after harvesting and cleaning. A wax coating is applied (which meets FDA food-additive regulations) to help retain moisture during transportation.
Most wax is petroleum based, another layer of chemicals.
Most grocery stores either wax cucumbers or enclose them in plastic to help them retain their moisture and keep longer. Organic cucumbers are required to use non-synthetic waxes and only chemicals approved under organic guidelines. Unwaxed varieties can be found at some co-ops, natural food stores, and farmers markets.
Both conventionally grown and organically grown cucumbers may have been waxed. However, the only waxes that can be used on organically grown cucumbers are non-synthetic waxes, and these waxes must be free of all chemical contaminants that are prohibited under organic regulations.
Simply put, that slimy white film is a sign of spoilage. When cucumbers become mushy or slimy on the outside, it's an indicator that they're starting to go bad — which can happen sooner than later when not stored properly.
Fortunately, cucumber skin is safe to eat, according to WebMD. The site explains that while pesticides can be found on cucumber skin, it easily comes off when washed; cucumbers also have a natural wax on their skin.
Place a washed cucumber onto a cutting board, sprinkle on some salt and roll the cucumber in the salt. Doing so will remove the stipples (bumps) and refresh both the color and flavor. This preparation method is called “itazuri” in Japanese.
Unfortunately, giving your slimy cucumbers a good rinse won't save them and make them safe for eating. They have begun to rot and it is best to simply toss out your slimy cucumbers, or better yet add them to your compost bin.
A pickling variety of cucumber produces the best quality pickles. Do not use waxed cucumbers. The wax prevents the cucumber from absorbing the brine. Always remove 1/16 inch slice from the blossom end of vegetables, even though the blossom isn't there the blossom ends have enzymes that can cause softening.
If the cucumber has a milky, white sheen on the outside, it's a no-go. You should also inspect them for mold. Even if it looks like the mold is isolated to one spot, it is better to play it safe and just toss it in the trash. Dark spots can also be an indicator that your cucumber is no longer a viable snack option.
Rich in antioxidants, cucumbers help calm itchy and irritated skin. Cut a few slices of cucumber and store them in the freezer for an hour. Rub these slices on your waxed skin for instant relief. You can also apply blended cucumber paste over the waxed area to soothe the skin.
Rinse produce BEFORE you peel it, so dirt and bacteria aren't transferred from the knife onto the fruit or vegetable. Gently rub produce while holding under plain running water. There's no need to use soap or a produce wash. Use a clean vegetable brush to scrub firm produce, such as melons and cucumbers.
Peeled cukes have less calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, vitamin A, and vitamin K than their fully intact counterparts. Plus, nearly all of cucumber's fiber comes from the peel—the inner flesh is mostly water.
"The best way to incorporate this into your routine would be to first cleanse your face then apply the frozen cucumber," says Wener. "Once the immediate benefits of feeling cool on your skin have gone away, you'll want to wash again (to get rid of any residual stickiness) and then complete your skincare routine."
According to the USDA, cucumbers should be used four to six days after purchase if kept in the refrigerator. 5 When wrapped tightly in plastic or beeswax wrap, they can last even longer.
Powdery mildew appears as white powder spots on cucumber plant leaves. Some people describe its appearance as white mold. Spots may develop on the leaf surface, stems, and even flowers and fruits of plants. These spots gradually expand over a wide area of the leaves and branches.
The Dirty Dozen
For the EWG listing, strawberries are at the top of the “Dirty Dozen” category. They are followed by apples, nectarines, peaches, celery, and grapes. Making up the 2nd half of that list are cherries, spinach, tomatoes, sweet red peppers, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Select It. Choose firm cucumbers with smooth skins. Bigger and thicker cucumbers have more seeds. Avoid buying cucumbers that have shriveled ends or blemishes.
American slicing cucumbers usually have an edible wax coating to prolong their shelf life and reduce moisture loss. But since English cucumbers are typically eaten with the skin on, the same wax coating is not applied. Instead, they are wrapped in shrink wrap to avoid moisture loss and to protect their extra-thin skin.
Naked cucumbers dehydrate quickly, becoming limp, and are vulnerable to damage during their journey from greenhouse to your fridge. By acting as a second skin, plastic film extends their shelf-life by almost a full week.