by Ethan Huff, DC Clothesline:

Unbeknownst to most, a plastic-like substance derived from nature is hiding in all sorts of food items. And because it is unlabeled, avoiding it can be difficult unless you know where to look.

A linear polymer of N-acetyl glucosamine, chitin is said to be the most abundant aminopolysaccharide polymer in nature. It is a common post-harvest food additive that, believe it or not, is derived from the exoskeletons of crustaceans, insects, and the cell walls of fungi.

You would have no idea it is there, but chitin, or chitosan, is slathered over vegetables and fruit as a protective coating to prolong their shelf life. It is also used on eggs, meat, and in dairy products (Related: The powers that be want us all eating not just chitin but whole insects).