What is Apeel Coating?
Apeel is an invisible, plant-derived protective coating developed by Apeel Sciences to keep fresh produce from spoiling as quickly. Made from purified mono- and diglycerides (edible fatty acids found in the peels, seeds, and pulp of fruits and vegetables), the coating acts as an extra barrier. By slowing down water loss and oxidation, Apeel helps extend the shelf life of perishable items, thereby reducing food waste throughout the supply chain. The company offers two main products: Edipeel for conventional produce and Organipeel for organic produce. Since its introduction, Apeel has expanded its availability across the globe, partnering with major retailers to make fresher produce available to consumers.
Fruits and Vegetables Treated with Apeel
The list of foods that use Apeel coating has grown significantly since its launch. The application often depends on regional approvals and specific retailer partnerships. While a comprehensive list can be difficult to track, here are some of the most commonly treated items:
- Avocados: This was one of the first and most widely adopted applications of Apeel, helping to extend the fruit's ripeness.
- Citrus Fruits: Lemons, limes, oranges, grapefruits, and mandarins are frequently treated with Apeel, particularly for long-distance transport.
- Apples: Some varieties of conventional and organic apples in North America and parts of Europe, like Gala, Fuji, Honeycrisp, and Pink Lady, may be coated.
- Cucumbers: English and mini cucumbers are treated to extend freshness and, in some cases, eliminate the need for plastic wrap.
- Mangoes: Apeel is used on mangoes, especially in European markets, to slow the ripening process.
- Asparagus: Applied in some North American markets to help retain moisture and maintain freshness.
- Other Produce: In certain regions, Apeel may also be found on strawberries, bananas, pomegranates, melons, and papayas.
How to Identify Apeel-Coated Produce
Identifying produce with Apeel can sometimes be challenging due to inconsistent labeling practices, but consumers can look for a few indicators.
Labeling and Stickers
- Apeel Logo: Some produce, particularly avocados and citrus, may have a sticker with the distinct green Apeel logo.
- PLU Codes: While not a definitive marker for Apeel, some consumers track PLU codes. However, this is unreliable as codes often represent the variety, not post-harvest treatments.
- Bulk Bin Signs: When produce is sold in bulk, retailers are legally required to display signs indicating if a coating has been applied. Check these signs carefully.
Retailer Policies
Checking a retailer's policy is often the most reliable way to find out if they stock Apeel-coated items. For example, retailers like Trader Joe's, Sprouts, and Wegman's have confirmed policies against selling Apeel-treated produce, while Kroger, Costco, and Walmart carry them.
Apeel vs. Traditional Waxes: A Comparison
Traditional fruit waxes have been used for decades to add a glossy sheen and offer some protection. Apeel, however, is designed differently for maximum shelf-life extension.
| Feature | Apeel Coating | Traditional Wax Coatings |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Plant-based mono- and diglycerides | Natural (carnauba wax, beeswax, shellac) or synthetic (petroleum-based) |
| Purpose | To create an invisible, tasteless barrier to reduce moisture loss and oxidation, thereby extending shelf life significantly | To add shine and offer minimal moisture protection |
| Effectiveness | Can double the shelf life of some produce by creating a highly effective breathable barrier | Less effective at slowing spoilage compared to Apeel; primarily cosmetic |
| Source | Derived from leftover plant materials (peels, pulp, seeds) | Can be derived from plant sources (carnauba), insects (shellac), or petroleum |
| Washability | Edible and designed to remain on the produce. Can be removed with warm water and scrubbing, but is safe to eat | Often more difficult to remove and primarily on inedible peels. Safe but not intended for consumption |
Retailers and Suppliers
Several major grocery chains and produce suppliers have partnered with Apeel to reduce food waste and improve product freshness. This list may not be exhaustive, as partnerships can change and vary by region.
Retailers Carrying Apeel-Coated Produce
- Kroger: One of the largest retailers to carry Apeel-coated avocados, asparagus, and limes.
- Costco: Has offered Apeel-coated avocados and other produce in select stores.
- Walmart: Stocks Apeel-coated cucumbers and other items in some locations.
- The Fresh Market: Known to sell Apeel avocados and citrus.
- Fairway Market: Some avocados may be treated with Apeel.
Produce Suppliers Using Apeel
- West Pak: A major avocado supplier that uses Apeel.
- Limoneira: Treats its conventional and organic lemons with Apeel.
- Topline Farms: Applies Apeel to its cucumbers and mini cucumbers.
- Sage Fruit Company: Expanded its partnership to use Apeel on multiple organic apple varieties.
Retailers and Brands Avoiding Apeel
- Trader Joe's: Has a policy against sourcing Apeel-coated produce.
- Natural Grocers: Does not carry Apeel-coated produce.
- Wegman's: Does not source any produce treated with Apeel.
- Driscoll's: Confirmed that its berries are not treated with Apeel.
Conclusion
As the global focus on reducing food waste intensifies, technologies like Apeel are becoming more prevalent in our food supply chain. Apeel's plant-based coating provides a significant improvement in shelf life for a variety of produce, including avocados, citrus fruits, apples, and cucumbers, by reinforcing their natural barriers. While retailers and suppliers are increasingly adopting this technology, consumers concerned about its use can rely on labeling, retailer policies, and by washing produce thoroughly. Staying informed about the foods that use Apeel coating allows consumers to make more educated choices and understand the broader effort to minimize waste. Learn more about Apeel's science and products on their official website. Find answers to your questions about Apeel
