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American company specializing in food preservation technology

Apeel Sciences is an American company that develops plant-derived coatings to extend the shelf life of fresh produce. The company is headquartered in Goleta, California, and was founded in 2012 by James Rogers. Apeel's technology aims to reduce food waste by slowing down the rate of spoilage in fruits and vegetables.

History

Apeel Sciences was founded in 2012 by James Rogers, a materials scientist with a Ph.D. from the University of California, Santa Barbara. The company was initially funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which supported the development of a product to help farmers in developing countries preserve their crops. Over the years, Apeel has expanded its focus to include a wide range of produce and has received additional funding from investors such as Andreessen Horowitz and Oprah Winfrey.

Technology

Apeel's technology involves creating an edible coating made from plant materials that can be applied to the surface of fruits and vegetables. This coating acts as a barrier to moisture and oxygen, two key factors that contribute to spoilage. By controlling these elements, Apeel's coatings can significantly extend the shelf life of produce, reducing food waste and providing economic benefits to retailers and consumers.

The coating is made from lipids and glycerolipids that are extracted from agricultural byproducts. These materials are then processed into a powder that can be mixed with water and applied to produce. The resulting coating is tasteless, odorless, and safe to eat.

Applications

Apeel's technology is used on a variety of produce, including avocados, citrus fruits, and berries. The company partners with growers, distributors, and retailers to apply its coatings at various points in the supply chain. This helps to maintain the quality and freshness of produce from the farm to the consumer.

Impact

Apeel Sciences aims to address the global issue of food waste, which is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and resource depletion. By extending the shelf life of produce, Apeel helps to reduce the amount of food that is discarded due to spoilage. This not only benefits the environment but also provides economic advantages by reducing losses for retailers and offering consumers fresher produce for longer periods.

Future Developments

Apeel continues to research and develop new applications for its technology. The company is exploring ways to apply its coatings to additional types of produce and is working on innovations that could further enhance the effectiveness of its products. Apeel is also expanding its global reach, seeking to bring its technology to markets around the world.

Related pages

• Food preservation
• Food waste
• Sustainable agriculture
• Postharvest physiology

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  Apeel Sciences logo

Argentinian mammarenavirus

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