How to get Apeel off of produce naturally and safely

According to Apeel Sciences, the plant-based coating applied to produce is fully edible and harmless. However, for those who prefer to remove it, using common kitchen ingredients is a straightforward and effective process that shows you how to get Apeel off of produce.

Quick Summary

Apeel is an edible produce coating that can be removed with simple techniques. Using a warm water scrub or soaking produce in a baking soda solution is highly effective, while peeling is the most reliable option for certain items.

Key Points

• Warm Water & Scrubbing: A gentle scrub under warm, running water is sufficient to remove Apeel from most produce.

• Baking Soda Soak: For a more thorough clean, soak produce in a baking soda solution to help break down the coating and other surface residues.

• Peeling: For produce with inedible peels, like avocados and citrus fruits, peeling is the most effective and certain method for removal.

• Vinegar Rinse: A diluted vinegar and water rinse is a natural alternative that helps clean produce and loosen residues.

• Thorough Drying: Always dry produce completely after washing to prevent mold and mildew growth, as the coating's protective effect is gone.

• Check for Labels: Information about Apeel is not always clearly labeled, but checking packaging or asking a store employee may provide clarity.

• Choose Uncoated Produce: If preferred, choose retailers or brands that have publicly committed to not selling Apeel-coated produce.

Understanding Apeel and Reasons for Its Removal

Apeel is a plant-based coating designed to extend the shelf life of produce by creating an edible barrier. It is composed of mono- and diglycerides, fatty acids found naturally in fruits and vegetables. While classified as GRAS by the FDA and meant to be eaten, some consumers choose to remove it.

Reasons include personal preference, ingredient concerns, or desire for maximum transparency. Removing coatings is also helpful when zesting citrus.

Natural Methods for Removing Apeel

Removing Apeel can be done using common household items. While warm water and scrubbing work, natural solutions can improve the process.

The Baking Soda Soak

Soaking in a baking soda solution effectively removes surface residues, including Apeel and pesticides.

Instructions:

• Fill a bowl or sink with lukewarm water.
• Add 1-2 tbsp baking soda per 4 cups water.
• Soak produce for 10-15 minutes.
• Scrub firm-skinned items with a vegetable brush.
• Rinse thoroughly under cool water.
• Dry completely.

The Vinegar and Water Rinse

A vinegar and water rinse is also effective for cleaning and can help loosen coatings.

Instructions:

• Mix one part white vinegar with three parts water.
• Soak produce for about 10 minutes.
• Rinse thoroughly under cool water.
• Dry completely.

The Simple Scrub Method

Warm water and scrubbing is a direct approach confirmed effective by Apeel Sciences.

Instructions:

• Rinse produce under warm, running water.
• Use hands for soft items or a vegetable brush for firmer ones.
• Rinse again with cool water.
• Dry thoroughly.

Considerations for Delicate Produce and Storage

• Delicate Items: For produce like berries, a shorter 5-minute soak in baking soda solution followed by a gentle rinse is best.
• Peeling: For produce with inedible skins (avocados, citrus), peeling guarantees full removal.
• Thorough Drying: Always dry produce completely after washing to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Comparison of Apeel Removal Methods

Feature	Baking Soda Soak	Vinegar Rinse	Simple Scrub	Peeling
Effectiveness on Apeel	High - Aids in breaking down coating and residues.	Moderate - Helps loosen surface films.	Moderate - Requires friction to be effective.	Full - Removes coating completely.
Additional Benefit	Removes many surface pesticides.	Acts as a natural disinfectant.	Requires no extra ingredients.	Guaranteed removal for non-edible peels.
Cost	Very low.	Low.	None.	None.
Best For	Firm, non-delicate produce.	General cleaning/disinfection.	Gentle and soft produce.	Produce with thick, inedible peels.

Identifying and Choosing Produce Without Apeel

Knowing if produce has Apeel isn't always easy due to varied labeling. It might be on a sticker, packaging, or store sign. Some retailers, like Natural Grocers, explicitly state they do not carry Apeel-coated produce, providing a clear alternative. While some sources mention PLU codes starting with "6," this is not a universally reliable indicator. Asking a store employee is often the most certain way to know.

Conclusion

While Apeel is a safe, edible coating designed to reduce food waste, consumers have effective options to remove it using natural methods. A baking soda soak or a simple scrub with warm water are effective. For produce with inedible skins, peeling is the most direct solution. Always wash and thoroughly dry your produce before consumption, regardless of coatings, for cleanliness and safety. {Link: Wirecutter guide https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/guides/how-to-clean-produce/}

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Apeel and what is it made of?

Apeel is an invisible, edible, plant-based coating made from mono- and diglycerides, fatty acids found in the skins, seeds, and pulp of fruits and vegetables.

Is the Apeel coating safe to eat?

Yes, Apeel is classified as "Generally Recognized as Safe" (GRAS) by the FDA and is made from food-safe, plant-based materials.

Can I use dish soap to remove Apeel?

No, you should not use dish soap on produce, as it is not food-safe and can leave harmful residues that could cause gastrointestinal issues.

Does soaking in vinegar remove Apeel completely?

A vinegar soak can help loosen the coating, but a baking soda soak or warm water and scrubbing are often more effective for complete removal of Apeel and other surface residues.

Will my produce spoil faster after washing off Apeel?

Yes, since the Apeel coating is designed to extend shelf life by reducing moisture loss, removing it means the produce will have a shorter lifespan. It should be consumed sooner after washing.

How can I tell if my produce has Apeel?

It is not always clearly labeled. You may find an indication on a produce sticker, packaging, or in-store signage, but asking a store employee is often the most reliable method.

What is the best way to clean delicate fruits like berries?

For delicate produce, soak them for a shorter duration (around 5 minutes) in a baking soda solution and then rinse them gently. Avoid aggressive scrubbing to prevent bruising.