Yes, Eco Farm Partners with Apeel
In July 2021, distributor Oppy announced a partnership with Apeel Sciences to apply the Apeel coating to Mexican-grown avocados from Eco Farms. The collaboration's stated goal is to use Apeel's plant-based technology to extend the freshness and shelf-life of the avocados, ultimately reducing food waste. For consumers, this means that some Eco Farms branded avocados, specifically those handled by Oppy, have indeed been treated with the edible coating.
Understanding Apeel's Technology
Apeel is an invisible, edible coating made from plant-based materials derived from the peels, seeds, and pulp of fruits and vegetables. Apeel Sciences developed this technology to create an extra layer of protection on produce, reinforcing the natural peel or skin. This protective barrier helps to slow two primary causes of spoilage:
- Moisture Loss: By keeping water inside the fruit, Apeel prevents dehydration and shriveling.
- Oxidation: The coating slows the rate at which oxygen enters the fruit, delaying the ripening process and decay.
Edipeel vs. Organipeel
Apeel offers two main products, designed for different types of produce:
- Edipeel™: The coating for conventionally grown produce, made of plant-based mono- and diglycerides.
- Organipeel™: The version approved for USDA-Certified Organic produce, which also contains citric acid and baking soda.
The specific version used on Eco Farms' organic produce is Organipeel™.
The Role of Apeel in Eco Farms' Sustainability Efforts
Eco Farms has a stated focus on sustainability and environmentally friendly methods, particularly within the organic farming sector. The partnership with Apeel, therefore, is positioned as a logical extension of these practices. By extending the shelf life of highly perishable produce like avocados, the company and its partners aim to tackle the significant problem of food waste. This reduces not only the amount of wasted food but also the environmental impact associated with its production and disposal, such as greenhouse gas emissions.
Apeel's Impact on the Produce Supply Chain
- Reduced Food Spoilage: The longer shelf life means less waste at the farm, distribution center, and grocery store.
- Longer Transportation: Produce can be shipped over greater distances, expanding market access without relying as heavily on refrigeration.
- Consumer Benefits: Shoppers have more time to consume produce before it goes bad, potentially saving money and reducing household waste.
- Retailer Advantages: Stores experience less spoilage, leading to better product availability and reduced markdowns.
Controversies and Clarifications
The use of Apeel, particularly on organic products, has generated some controversy among consumers and some retailers. A key area of concern centers on the product's self-affirmed 'Generally Recognized As Safe' (GRAS) status by the FDA, a process that allows companies to bypass extensive pre-market approval. Another point of contention relates to the full list of ingredients in Organipeel™ being proprietary and not fully disclosed to the public, though Apeel maintains its ingredients are plant-based and safe.
Setting the Record Straight
- Not a Chemical Cleaner: An online safety sheet for a UK-based surface cleaner also named 'Apeel' was mistakenly circulated, leading to unfounded safety concerns about the produce coating.
- Can Be Washed Off: While the coating is designed to be eaten, it can be removed by washing and light scrubbing.
- No Bill Gates Ownership: Rumors of Bill Gates' direct ownership are false; the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation provided initial grants in 2012 and 2015, but has no ongoing ownership or operational role.
Treated vs. Untreated Avocados: A Comparison
| Feature | Apeel-Treated Avocado | Untreated Avocado |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Maintains a fresh, vibrant green color for longer. | Ripens and discolors more quickly. |
| Shelf-Life | Up to twice as long, allowing more time for consumption. | Typical shelf life, which can be short and unpredictable. |
| Ripening Control | Slower and more consistent ripening process. | Faster ripening, often going from unripe to overripe quickly. |
| Texture | Flesh remains firm and creamy for an extended period. | Softens and can become mushy as it ages. |
| Food Waste | Reduced, as more time is available to consume the product. | Higher potential for waste due to rapid spoilage. |
Conclusion
Eco Farms has officially partnered with Apeel to use its plant-based, edible coating on avocados. The decision aligns with Eco Farms' broader sustainability goals by extending produce shelf life and combating food waste. While Apeel has faced some scrutiny regarding ingredient transparency and regulatory status, the company, supported by third-party certifiers and retailers, stands by the safety and effectiveness of its products. For consumers, this means purchasing Apeel-coated Eco Farms avocados provides the benefit of extended freshness, reducing food spoilage at home. The choice ultimately depends on weighing the sustainability benefits against personal preferences and concerns about the proprietary nature of some ingredients, a consideration that is part of a larger conversation about the future of food technology and organic standards. For further information on the product, you can visit the official Apeel website: https://www.apeel.com/product-information.
