Bill Gates has drawn criticism for his involvement in a controversial food coating called Organipeel, an “organic” version of Apeel—a product designed to extend the shelf life of fresh produce. The substance, registered as a pesticide with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has raised concerns over its composition and safety warnings.

Organipeel, developed by Apeel Sciences, is applied as a thin, edible layer derived from plant-based materials. According to EPA records, it contains 0.66% citric acid as an active ingredient, with the remaining 99.34% listed as “other ingredients” that are not fully disclosed. The product’s safety data sheet warns of moderate eye irritation and advises users to wear protective glasses during handling, though it is marketed as safe for consumption after application.

Critics argue that the lack of transparency about its full formulation is alarming. One post compares Organipeel to Agent Orange, a defoliant linked to severe health effects, though Apeel Sciences clarifies that the analogy is rhetorical and not literal. The company emphasizes that its product uses plant-derived monoglycerides and diglycerides, which are approved as safe by regulatory bodies.

The controversy intensified after actress Michelle Pfeiffer publicly criticized Apeel, calling its use on organic produce “very concerning” and urging consumers to avoid products labeled with the coating. Meanwhile, a fact-check by the Associated Press disputed claims that Organipeel is hazardous, noting that safety data sheets referenced online pertain to an unrelated cleaning product sold by a different company.

Apeel Sciences has distanced itself from Bill Gates, clarifying he has no ownership or involvement in the company. However, it received early funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The product remains available on select produce, with some retailers opting not to sell coated items. Consumers are advised to check labels for Apeel use or seek uncoated alternatives.