No, Food Lion Does Not Carry Produce with Apeel
For consumers concerned about edible coatings on their fresh fruits and vegetables, the answer for Food Lion is a firm 'no.' A public social media interaction from late 2023 confirms that Food Lion does not carry produce treated with Apeel. In a direct response to a customer query, the company stated, "At this time, there are no products in our stores that have Apeel." Based on the lack of any official announcement reversing this position, it is safe to assume this policy remains in effect through 2025.
What are Food Lion's Freshness and Sustainability Policies?
Food Lion’s decision aligns with a broader trend among some retailers to be transparent about the products they offer. While they have not partnered with Apeel, Food Lion has other initiatives related to product quality and sustainability. These include a commitment to remove certain artificial additives from their private-brand products by 2025 and a focus on transparency in their ingredient lists. They also maintain a list of restricted substances for their private brand products and packaging, which shows a dedication to monitoring chemical content.
What is Apeel Produce and Why the Controversy?
Apeel is a plant-based, invisible, and odorless coating applied to fresh produce to slow down spoilage. By reinforcing the produce's natural peel, it reduces water loss and oxidation, extending shelf life. Apeel Sciences states the coating is derived from plant oils and is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA. Despite this, Apeel has faced significant public scrutiny and consumer concern, leading many retailers to announce policies against it.
The Health Concerns and Controversy
The primary concerns voiced by some consumer groups include:
- Proprietary Ingredients: Apeel is not required to disclose its full ingredient list, citing trade secrets, which raises transparency issues.
- Potential Contaminants: Some independent testing has reportedly found trace amounts of heavy metals like lead, cadmium, and arsenic, and other chemical solvents used in the extraction process.
- Labeling Inconsistencies: The labeling of Apeel-coated produce can be inconsistent, with some items bearing a sticker, while others are identified only on packaging or store signs, making avoidance difficult for cautious consumers.
- Misinformation Campaigns: Apeel has been the target of viral misinformation campaigns on social media, some of which have been retracted, adding to public confusion.
How to Identify Apeel in Other Grocery Stores
While you won't find Apeel at Food Lion, you may encounter it at other retailers. Here are key identifiers to look for:
- PLU Code: For organic produce treated with Apeel, the PLU (Price Look-Up) code on the sticker may start with a '6', while standard organic PLU codes begin with '9'. Note that this is not universally applied.
- Sticker Labels: Some produce may have a sticker with the Apeel logo, although this is not a guarantee and depends on the specific retailer and supplier.
- In-Store Signage: Look for signage near the produce display that mentions Apeel-treated items. This can be inconsistent, so it's best to be proactive.
- Check the Supplier: The coating is applied by suppliers, so knowing which brands partner with Apeel (e.g., some avocado and citrus growers) can help you identify treated products.
Apeel vs. Other Produce Coatings: A Comparison
| Feature | Apeel | Conventional Waxes | Alternatives (e.g., Hazel Tech) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Composition | Plant-based mono- and diglycerides derived from edible plant materials. | Synthetic or natural waxes (carnauba, shellac). | Packaging inserts that alter atmosphere or other proprietary methods. |
| Application | Applied as a liquid spray. | Applied as a liquid spray or dip. | Packaging inserts (e.g., sachets) added to produce boxes. |
| Consumer Concerns | Transparency, ingredient disclosure, trace heavy metals. | Allergen risks, conventional vs. organic approval. | Dependent on specific technology, often involves altering atmosphere. |
| Washable? | Apeel says it can be washed off with water and scrubbing, but some consumers disagree. | Can be scrubbed or washed off, depending on the type. | Generally not a surface coating, so not applicable. |
What You Can Do to Ensure Apeel-Free Produce
For shoppers who want to avoid Apeel and similar products, here are a few practical steps:
- Shop at Food Lion: Based on their publicly stated policy, you can be confident that you won't find Apeel-coated produce here.
- Shop Local Farmers Markets: Supporting local farms is a surefire way to know exactly what's on your food. Farmers are often happy to discuss their growing and harvesting processes.
- Choose Carefully at Other Retailers: If you shop at a different grocery store, check for clear labeling, ask store employees, or choose produce you can peel.
- Know Your Brands: Familiarize yourself with produce brands and suppliers known to use or avoid Apeel.
- Use Natural Cleaning Methods: Some consumers use natural cleaning methods like a vinegar-water soak, though Apeel maintains its product can be removed with simple washing.
Conclusion: No Apeel at Food Lion, but Stay Informed
While the current information indicates that Food Lion does not sell produce with Apeel, it's crucial for consumers to stay informed about what they are purchasing, especially as food technology and retail partnerships evolve. Food Lion's commitment to freshness and its restricted substance lists suggest a focus on consumer-preferred practices, but verification is always wise. By understanding what Apeel is, its controversy, and how to identify it, you can make empowered decisions about the food you bring home, whether from Food Lion or another grocery store. For further details on food technology, check out resources like the Cornucopia Institute, which investigates food coatings and related practices.
