Costco Does Not Use Apeel Coating on Organic Apples

A persistent claim on social media asserts that Costco’s organic apples are coated with Apeel, a plant-based preservative allegedly linked to Bill Gates. These posts often state that Costco continues to sell Apeel-treated produce without disclosure, implying a lack of transparency and potential health risks.

Social Media Post

Multiple social media users claim that Costco is still using Apeel on their produce. These claims have gained traction across Facebook, Threads and X, sparking increased consumer concerns about food transparency.

Source | Archive

Source | Archive

Source | Archive

Fact Check

What is Apeel?

Apeel is a protective coating made from plant materials that helps fruits and vegetables stay fresh longer by preventing moisture loss and exposure to air. The FDA has deemed it safe for food use. While the exact formula is a trade secret, some consumers have called for clearer labeling when Apeel is used on organic produce.

Costco’s Historical Use of Apeel

Costco began using Apeel, a plant-based coating, in 2018 to help keep produce fresh longer. They first tested it on avocados in Midwest stores, then expanded to organic limes and apples. According to Bob Huskey, Costco’s Vice President of Produce, the company used Apeel to extend shelf life and meet growing consumer interest in sustainable food preservation.

However, by Spring 2023, Costco stopped using Apeel completely. According to Robyn Openshaw of GreenSmoothieGirl, who spoke directly with Huskey, two main factors drove this decision: Costco’s produce sells so quickly they don’t need preservation coatings, and Apeel added extra costs. This decision was reported by GreenSmoothieGirl and MyHealthForward,(my health forward Instagram announcement can be found here)  and as of February 21, 2025, there’s no indication Costco plans to bring Apeel back. The company’s brief experience with Apeel shows how they prioritize efficient operations over extended preservation methods.

We have also contacted Costco for further clarification on this matter and will update this once we receive their response.

Other Retailers’ Stance on Apeel Usage

U.S. retailers have taken different approaches to Apeel-coated produce based on consumer demands and business needs. Here’s where major stores stand as of 2024:

Companies that don’t use Apeel: 

• Natural Grocers and Publix have publicly committed to avoiding Apeel products
• Sprouts Farmers Markets and Trader Joe’s have stopped using Apeel without formal announcements
• Costco discontinued Apeel use in Spring 2023, citing quick product turnover
• Smaller health-focused stores like Jimbo’s and Azure Standard also avoid Apeel

Companies with mixed policies: 

• H-E-B and Central Market avoid Apeel in their own products but can’t control all suppliers
• Target, Walmart, and Albertsons carry some Apeel-treated produce, but not in store brands
• Kroger keeps their branded items Apeel-free but allows it in other brands
• Whole Foods hasn’t taken a clear stance on Apeel usage.

For the full list with more detail read here.

Retailers have different views on using Apeel’s food preservation technology. While some stores embrace it to keep produce fresh longer, others prefer to meet growing customer demands for more natural foods. Although Apeel initially gained traction with many retailers and suppliers by 2022 (Source: Progressive Grocer), several major stores like Sprouts and Trader Joe’s have since stopped using it. This trend shows that by 2025, many retailers are choosing to be more open about their food practices rather than adopting new preservation methods.

Conclusion

Upon our investigation, claims that Costco currently uses Apeel on their organic apples are misleading. While Costco did experiment with Apeel coating between 2018-2023, they have since discontinued its use across all produce items. The company’s decision to stop using Apeel aligns with their business model of fast inventory turnover and direct customer communication.