Lawsuit filed after misinformation campaign targets Apeel

Apeel Sciences has filed a lawsuit in Florida against wellness influencer Robyn Openshaw and her company GreenSmoothieGirl.

The company says Openshaw led a campaign of false claims that harmed its business and reputation. The lawsuit includes accusations such as defamation, false advertising, and unfair trade practices.

According to Apeel, Openshaw began spreading misinformation in July 2023 and made more than 60 posts by May 2025. She allegedly told followers that Apeel’s plant-based coating was toxic and contained heavy metals, which the company says is untrue. The complaint says she encouraged boycotts, pressured retailers, and sold a card showing which stores avoided Apeel products.

Apeel’s lawyer Thomas A. Clare said the company was the victim of a smear campaign that caused real harm to employees and partners. He added that free speech does not allow defamation and that the case is about accountability.

The lawsuit comes after actress Michelle Pfeiffer retracted false claims about Apeel in July 2025, admitting the information was inaccurate.

Apeel explains that its coatings are made from safe, natural ingredients and are approved in the U.S., EU, and other markets to reduce food waste.

For more details on Apeel’s products, send your inquiry today.