Apeel Reveal Act of 2025
- Sponsor
- Rep. Stutzman, Marlin A. [R-IN-3]
- Committees
- Energy and Commerce Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 23, 2025
Bottom line
The bill requires clear labeling on fruits and vegetables treated with shelf-life extending coatings, aiming to provide consumers with more information about their food.
What it actually does
This bill amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to mandate that fruits and vegetables treated with certain product coatings designed to extend shelf life must bear labeling disclosing the use of such coatings. It specifically names Apeel Sciences product coatings, including Edipeel and Organipeel, as examples of 'covered product coatings.' The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is directed to issue guidance on this disclosure requirement within 180 days of the bill's enactment, with the misbranding provision taking effect one year after enactment.
Proponents argue
Supporters argue that consumers have a fundamental right to know what substances are applied to their food, especially novel coatings designed to alter natural shelf life. They contend that this transparency allows individuals to make informed purchasing decisions based on their dietary preferences, health considerations, or personal values. Proponents believe that clear labeling fosters greater trust between consumers and food producers.
Opponents contend
Critics may argue that existing FDA regulations for food additives and GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) substances are sufficient to ensure food safety, and that mandating additional specific labeling for these coatings could create unnecessary consumer alarm or confusion without a clear public health justification. They might also contend that such requirements impose undue regulatory and financial burdens on producers and retailers, potentially increasing costs for consumers or limiting the availability of products with extended shelf life benefits.
The bill is very short and clear, allowing for quick comprehension by any interested reader.
Section 2(a) and 2(b)
Mandatory Disclosure of Covered Product Coatings on Fruits and Vegetables
This provision amends Section 403 of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to classify fruits or vegetables with a 'covered product coating' as misbranded unless they bear labeling disclosing the use of such a coating. A 'covered product coating' is defined as any coating directly applied to a fruit or vegetable to extend its shelf life, explicitly including Apeel Sciences product coatings like Edipeel and Organipeel. The bill also directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue guidance on this disclosure within 180 days of enactment, with the labeling requirement becoming effective one year after enactment.
Supporters argue
Proponents argue that singling out these coatings ensures that consumers are fully aware of all substances applied to their fresh produce, empowering them to make choices aligned with their preferences for 'natural' or minimally processed foods. They believe this specific disclosure addresses a gap in current labeling practices.
Critics contend
Opponents might argue that explicitly naming specific company products in legislation could be seen as unfairly targeting particular innovations, potentially stifling agricultural technology that reduces food waste. They may also contend that if these coatings are deemed safe by regulatory bodies, specific mandatory labeling could imply a risk where none exists, leading to consumer confusion or unwarranted concern.
Tradeoffs
This provision balances the desire for comprehensive consumer information against the potential for increased regulatory burden on the food industry and the risk of misinterpreting the safety or necessity of certain food technologies. There is a tension between promoting transparency and avoiding alarm over substances deemed safe by regulators.