Consumer Information
Apple Facts
- About 2,500 known varieties of apples are grown in the United States. More than 7,500 are grown worldwide.
- Nearly 100 varieties are grown commercially in the United States, but a total of 21 popular varieties account for over 90 percent of 1999 production:
1. GingerGold |
8. Ida Red |
15. Eastern Red Delicious |
- Apples are grown in every state in the continental United States, and are grown commercially in 36 states.
Handling & Storage Tips
- Buy apples that are bruise-free and firm to the touch. Bruised apples can decay quickly.
- Handle apples gently to prevent bruising.
- Store apples in the refrigerator. They will last up to 10 times longer if refrigerated than if left at room temperature.
- Apples emit ethylene, a naturally-occuring gas that encourages ripening. Store apples in a plastic bag to prevent the from speeding the ripening of other produce items.
- Apples absorb odors easily, so store them away from foods with strong odors.
- Coat apple slices and dices in a mixture of 1 part lemon juice to 3 parts water to retard browning.
- Unbruised apples, handled and stored well, have a storage life of 90 days, and often more!
