Michelle Pfeiffer Criticizes FDA Approval of Food Coating on Organic Produce

Michelle Pfeiffer has expressed strong concerns regarding the recent approval of Apeel Sciences, a plant-based edible coating intended to extend the shelf life of fresh fruits and vegetables. She voiced her disapproval through her Instagram Stories after the FDA approved the spray for use on USDA-certified organic produce.

Pfeiffer explained her worries, stating, “Apeel is an edible, plant-derived coating designed to preserve produce, now approved for use on organic items. This means that such produce is coated in something invisible and unwashable,” which she finds very troubling.

She shared an image emphasizing that the coating cannot be seen or washed off, contrary to the company’s claims, and posted a list of grocery stores that do not sell products coated with Apeel. She urged her followers to verify the list via a link she provided.

The actress also reposted a video claiming: “Organic produce is no longer safe. Bill Gates’ Apeel just received USDA organic certification.” However, it’s important to note that Gates is not affiliated with the company, and Apeel has clarified that he has no ownership or involvement in the brand.

Apeel, founded in 2012 by James Rogers, received grants totaling less than $1.1 million from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in 2012 and 2015. The company has since issued a public statement distancing itself from Gates, affirming that he has zero connection with Apeel’s ownership or operations.

While Pfeiffer claims the coating is invisible and cannot be washed away, the company’s website states otherwise, noting that it “can be removed with warm water and a gentle scrub.” The coating is made from naturally occurring fats found in plants and in the human body, and the company emphasizes that very little of the substance is used, asserting it’s similar to ingredients in common foods like salad dressings, bread, and chocolate.