Overview

• The FDA granted approval in mid-July for Apeel Sciences’ edible plant-based coating on USDA-certified organic fruits and vegetables.
• Michelle Pfeiffer denounced the approval on Instagram, labeling the invisible, allegedly unremovable film “very concerning.”
• She posted a list of grocers—including Costco, Publix and Trader Joe’s—that will not stock produce treated with the coating.
• Apeel maintains its coating can be removed with warm water and a gentle scrub and is composed of ingredients found naturally in plant peels and common foods.
• The company reiterated that Bill Gates holds no ownership stake despite having received Gates Foundation grants in 2012 and 2015.