Costco's Official Stance on Apeel
As of recent updates, Costco's official customer service website provides a definitive answer regarding the use of Apeel-coated produce. According to the company, 'Costco is not currently purchasing items with Apeel on them'. This clear policy helps address widespread consumer speculation and concern. Apeel is a plant-based, edible coating designed to extend the shelf life of fresh fruits and vegetables by slowing water loss and oxidation. While the technology is a strategic tool for food supply chains aiming to reduce waste, it has become a point of scrutiny for some shoppers.
The Historical Context of Costco and Apeel
Interestingly, this was not always Costco's policy. Sources indicate that Costco did have a partnership with Apeel as far back as 2018. During this period, some Costco locations likely carried produce treated with the Apeel coating. However, that partnership has since ended. The decision to stop carrying Apeel-treated produce likely stems from a combination of factors, including evolving sourcing strategies and responsiveness to member feedback. The subsequent public statement from Costco's corporate produce department indicates no plans to reintroduce Apeel-treated produce. This shift in policy aligns Costco with several other retailers who have also opted not to stock Apeel-treated items due to consumer preference.
What is Apeel and How Does it Work?
Apeel is a groundbreaking food technology developed by the company Apeel Sciences. The coating is made from plant-based mono- and diglycerides, which are lipids naturally found in the skins, seeds, and pulp of fruits and vegetables. When applied as a thin, invisible layer, it creates an extra barrier that helps retain moisture and protect against oxygen, thereby extending the produce's shelf life.
Commonly Apeel-Treated Produce (not found at Costco):
- Avocados
- Lemons and Limes
- Mandarin Oranges
- Grapefruits
- English Cucumbers
- Asparagus
The coating is designed to be edible and tasteless, and Apeel Sciences' products have been classified as 'Generally Recognized as Safe' (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is also certified for use on organic produce, a fact that has sometimes caused confusion among consumers.
Identifying Apeel-Treated Produce at Other Retailers
For consumers shopping at stores other than Costco, identifying Apeel-treated produce can sometimes be challenging due to inconsistent labeling. Federal regulations require packaged produce to state that a wax or coating has been applied. However, for loose bulk produce, the disclosure may be on a bin label or a counter card, and is sometimes overlooked. Look for the Apeel logo or sticker, which the company and some retailers use for added transparency. If in doubt, ask store staff or consider a retailer with a clear no-Apeel policy, such as Natural Grocers or Sprouts.
Comparison of Retailer Apeel Policies
| Feature | Costco | Whole Foods | Kroger | Natural Grocers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Current Policy | Does not purchase Apeel-treated produce. | Global team does not buy it, but regional differences may exist. | Some brands carried may have Apeel; store brand is Apeel-free. | Publicly stated they do not carry any Apeel-treated produce. |
| Past Relationship | Had a partnership beginning in 2018, later discontinued. | No evidence of widespread historical use, though regional differences possible. | Partnered with Apeel in the past. | No record of carrying Apeel-treated produce. |
| Consumer Visibility | No Apeel stickers or labeling currently necessary. | Varies; may not find items with Apeel due to corporate policy. | Potential for Apeel-treated items from third-party suppliers; labeling may be present. | Unlikely to find any labeling or products since they maintain an exclusionary policy. |
| Key Takeaway | Clear corporate-level policy against purchasing Apeel-treated items. | Strong stance on the global level but potential for regional variance. | Some products may contain Apeel, requiring consumers to remain vigilant. | A safe haven for consumers wishing to avoid Apeel entirely. |
The Apeel Debate: Concerns vs. Benefits
The use of Apeel and other edible coatings is a complex issue with valid points on both sides. Proponents highlight the significant benefits of reducing food waste and extending the supply chain's efficiency. Food waste is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and technologies like Apeel can play a role in mitigating this environmental impact. On the other hand, some consumers voice concerns about the increasing use of technology in food, questioning the long-term effects of consuming such coatings. There is also a strong desire for transparency and clear labeling that has sometimes been lacking. Organizations like the Cornucopia Institute have advocated for greater disclosure, citing reports of sensitive individuals having reactions, though Apeel maintains its ingredients are safe. The evolving landscape of consumer demands and retailer policies demonstrates that shopper preferences hold significant weight in the market.
Conclusion
In summary, Costco's current policy clearly states that it does not purchase produce coated with Apeel, a reversal from a previous relationship with the company. For Costco members, this means you can shop for fresh produce with confidence, knowing the retailer has taken a definitive stance against this edible coating. For those who shop elsewhere, identifying Apeel-treated products may require checking for specific stickers or labeling, though transparency can sometimes be inconsistent. As the food industry continues to innovate, it's clear that both consumer awareness and retailer responsiveness will play crucial roles in shaping the future of our food supply. For more information on the technology itself, you can visit the Apeel Sciences official website.
Apeel is a plant-based coating used to extend the shelf life of fresh produce.
- Costco's Current Stance: The company has an official policy stating it is not purchasing items with Apeel coating.
- Policy Shift: This is a change from a previous partnership that occurred around 2018.
- Common Use: Apeel is typically applied to produce like avocados and citrus fruits at other grocery stores.
- Identifying the Coating: At other retailers, shoppers should look for Apeel stickers or packaging labels to identify treated produce.
- Consumer Preference: Consumer pushback and a desire for transparency have influenced retailers' decisions regarding Apeel.
- Environmental Benefit: The primary goal of Apeel is to reduce food waste by prolonging freshness.
