Last updated: September 9, 2026
Q: Why is Sprouts discontinuing ProduceMaxx?
A: We regularly evaluate our processes to ensure Sprouts’ produce remains safe and healthy.
- Rather than debate regulatory interpretations or settled science, we have agreed to stop using ProduceMaxx in our stores. This is an action we have been considering for some time now given the effectiveness of the other steps we take to prepare our produce.
- We used it to wash and crisp select produce as an added food safety step, in line with FDA and manufacturer guidelines.
- Sprouts produce remains safe and healthy.
- Our commitment to food safety is unchanged. Our produce is washed and crisped with fresh, clean water and remains safe. We manage food safety through supplier requirements, standardized in-store procedures, and traceability systems that let us identify and remove product quickly if needed.
Q: Is ProduceMaxx safe?
A: Yes. ProduceMaxx is an FDA-approved and EPA-registered antimicrobial wash used to protect customers from foodborne illnesses, help reduce pathogens, preserve freshness, and reduce food waste.
- Sprouts used it to wash and crisp select produce as an added food safety step, in line with FDA and manufacturer guidelines.
- It is permitted for use on certified organic produce under USDA National Organic Program Guidance.
- We regularly evaluate our processes and have considered discontinuing the use of ProduceMaxx for some time now given the effectiveness of the other steps we take to prepare our produce.
Q: Does ProduceMaxx compromise organic food products?
A: No. ProduceMaxx is approved by the USDA to be used on certified organic produce.
Q: Does Sprouts agree with the Texas Attorney General’s claims about how ProduceMaxx changes the organic certification of produce?
A: No, but we take their views seriously.
- ProduceMaxx is a water-based antimicrobial wash, authorized for use on organic produce by the FDA and is EPA-registered.
- It is permitted for use in certified organic produce under USDA National Organic Program Guidance.
- We are committed to food safety and rather than debate regulatory interpretations or settled science, we have stopped using ProduceMaxx in our stores.
Q: Why did Sprouts agree to remove ProduceMaxx from its stores nationwide while Albertsons is only removing the product from its stores in Texas?
A: Sprouts’ decision to stop using ProduceMaxx across all of its stores is an action it has been considering for some time given the effectiveness of the other steps the Company takes to prepare produce.
We regularly evaluate our processes and have considered discontinuing the use of ProduceMaxx for some time now given the effectiveness of the other steps we take to prepare our produce.
Q: What did Sprouts use ProduceMaxx for?
A: ProduceMaxx is a water-based antimicrobial wash, authorized for use on organic produce per FDA and is EPA-registered.
- Sprouts used ProduceMaxx on 40 produce items on the wet wall.
- We used it to wash and crisp select produce as an added food safety step, in line with FDA and manufacturer guidelines.
- It is permitted for use in certified organic produce under USDA National Organic Program Guidance.
Q: Does Sprouts spray chemicals on its produce?
A: No, only fresh, clean water.
Q: Does removing ProduceMaxx make the produce on shelves less safe?
A: No. Sprouts produce is safe to eat. Our produce is washed and crisped with fresh, clean water and remains safe. Food safety at Sprouts doesn’t rest on any single step – it runs from our supplier standards, practices on farm through in-store handling and monitoring.
Q: Should customers wash produce at home?
A: Yes – as always. FDA recommends rinsing fresh fruits and vegetables under plain running water before eating, with no soap or produce wash needed. That guidance hasn’t changed, and it’s good practice regardless of where you shop.
Q: What steps does Sprouts take to ensure food safety?
A: We manage food safety through supplier requirements, standardized in-store procedures, and traceability systems that let us identify and remove product quickly if needed.
- Our produce is washed and crisped with fresh, clean water, and produce used in our deli is thoroughly washed before preparation.
- These processes align with the Food Safety Modernization Act and FDA and USDA oversight.
- Learn more at sprouts.com/about/food-safety-and-quality.