Earth Fare’s Official Stance on Apeel
For shoppers concerned about what is on their fresh produce, Earth Fare offers a straightforward answer: the company publicly declares it does not use Apeel on its fruits and vegetables. The grocery store chain maintains a strict "no" policy on this product, ensuring its produce remains free from the plant-based coating.
This policy aligns with Earth Fare's commitment to transparency and clean ingredients. Their "Boot List" outlines ingredients banned from their shelves, an approach that extends to avoiding Apeel to provide what they call "Real Food". This choice differentiates Earth Fare from retailers who have adopted Apeel.
What Exactly is Apeel?
Apeel is an edible coating developed from plant materials to extend the shelf life of fresh produce. Composed primarily of mono- and diglycerides found in plant peels and pulp, it creates a barrier to reduce moisture loss and oxidation, slowing spoilage. While seen as a way to reduce food waste, concerns about ingredient transparency and potential byproducts exist. Retailers like Earth Fare may avoid it due to these concerns, preferring minimally processed food.
Comparing Earth Fare's Approach to Apeel Users
Retailers vary in their use of Apeel. Some embrace it for waste reduction, while others like Earth Fare opt out based on values. The table below highlights key differences.
| Feature | Earth Fare's Approach | Retailers Using Apeel (e.g., Costco, Kroger) |
|---|---|---|
| Produce Coating | No Apeel. Produce is sold in its natural, uncoated state. | Uses Apeel on select produce, such as avocados, apples, and limes, to extend shelf life. |
| Ingredient Policy | Governed by the strict "Boot List," banning many additives and artificial ingredients. | Adheres to FDA and USDA regulations; Apeel is classified as "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS). |
| Sourcing | Prioritizes transparent sourcing from trusted suppliers, often local, to ensure quality and meet internal standards. | Sources produce from various suppliers, some of which apply Apeel at the request of the retailer or distributor. |
| Consumer Concerns | Avoids coatings to address customer concerns about ingredients and processing methods. | Acknowledges food waste reduction benefits but may receive consumer pushback regarding ingredients and potential labeling. |
Why Produce Coatings are a Concern for Some Shoppers
Many consumers prioritize knowing the processing of their food. External coatings, even plant-based ones, raise questions:
- Ingredient Transparency: Some Apeel formulas are proprietary, causing uncertainty.
- Organic Integrity: While approved for U.S. organic produce, some feel coatings conflict with a natural food philosophy.
- Washability: Apeel is designed to be durable and not easily washed off, a concern for those who thoroughly clean produce.
Sourcing and Transparency at Earth Fare
Earth Fare's decision to avoid Apeel is part of a broader strategy focused on transparency. They build relationships with suppliers who share their values, partnering with groups like INFRA and local growers to ensure high standards of sourcing and handling. This approach assures customers they are buying food in a natural state without extended-life coatings.
Earth Fare also addresses food waste through alternative methods, such as its partnership with Flashfood. This service allows them to offer discounted products nearing expiration via a mobile app, managing inventory and reducing waste without compromising their core values.
Conclusion: A Clear Choice for Consumers
Earth Fare does not use Apeel on its produce. Their public statements and adherence to the "Boot List" demonstrate this position. For customers seeking fresh, minimally processed produce without external coatings, Earth Fare offers a clear alternative. This policy reflects their specific food philosophy, allowing shoppers to make informed choices based on well-defined standards.
For more details on Earth Fare's ingredient standards, refer to their official "Boot List".
