Washington Apples

University of Massachusetts, Lowell, January 19th 2006.

Tchantchou, F., Chan A., Kifle, L., Ortiz, D. and T.B. Shea, Apple juice concentrate prevents oxidative damage and impaired maze performance in aged mice. The Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease (8, 3, Dec. 2005): 283-287.

Interpoma 2002 conference, Bolzano Italy, Dianne Hyson, Ph.D., M.S., R.D., University of California-Davis.

Ibid.

Fact Sheet – History, Grower Information And Statistics

HISTORY
Washington apples have a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The region’s bountiful sunshine and rich lava-ash soil create the perfect growing conditions for apples, and commercial orchards began establishing along the stream banks in 1889. Today, more than 225,000 acres of orchards produce the apples we love, nourished by the crystal clear water of the Cascade Mountains. Washington has developed a plethora of apple varieties – some well-established classics, some new and exciting.

GROWER INFORMATION
You can trust the apple growers of Washington – they are proud of their quality controls and follow the strictest grades in the industry.

For red varieties, Washington grades require a more uniform, intense, deeper shade of ruby than U.S. grades, and for green and yellow varieties, fewer surface blemishes are allowed.
Reds (like the Cameo and Washington Pink) must have a minimum sugar level and meet minimum firmness standards at the time of shipment – and Washington is the only growing region in the world with this firmness requirement.
Depending on a mostly family-run farm industry, Washington apple growers share your concerns for family health and continually work to reduce their use of pesticides.

VARIETAL HISTORY

CAMEO
Never heard of a Cameo? You are not alone, especially as a Canadian as the variety is not grown here. The Cameo is a newbie as far as apples go, originating in Dryden, Washington in 1987. Cameo holds the esteemed title of first apple variety originating from the U.S. in many years, and the story will surprise you! Apple grower Darrel Caudle thought he had planted a Red Delicious tree, but instead, he found a Cameo hiding in his Red Delicious orchard - a single, lone tree which was growing from a completely chance seedling. Liking what he tasted, over the next few years Darrel patented the tree and registered a trademark for the new variety. It is quickly becoming a favourite of the newer apple varieties to recently join the marketplace. Cameo apples represent 1% of the total Washington apple crop.

Harvested in October, look for Cameo’s red stripe over a creamy background. Cameo holds its shape well when cooked, making it the perfect choice for pies and sauces. It also has a savory sweet-tart snap, which is perfect for fresh eating. Slow to brown once it has been sliced, Cameo is the ideal compliment to a fruit or fresh green salad. It also has a thin, tender skin that adds to its eating pleasure. Cameos are available October through August.

WASHINGTON PINK
If the name Washington Pink doesn’t ring a bell, you may recognize its adopted name, Pink Lady. Also a newbie like Cameo and also not grown in Canada, this pretty, rosy pink apple originated in Australia in 1985 as a cross between Golden Delicious and Lady Williams. So how did this Aussie win the hearts of North Americans? The varietal was introduced to the U.S. by way of New Zealand in the late 1980s, and adapted well to Washington State’s late October harvesting weather. Washington Pink apples represent 2 per cent of the total Washington apple crop.

Chilly fall evening temperatures bring out the best of Washington’s pink cheeks and sweet crunch. Medium in size and conical in shape, Washington Pink has a fine-grained flesh that is crisp and crunchy. Another perk is that the apple (much like Cameo) does not brown easily when cut, making it an attractive addition to fresh fruit and vegetable salads and platters. It is also very good for sauce, freezing and baking. Washington Pinks are available October through July.

GRANNY SMITH

Granny Smith apples originated in Australia and were introduced to the American market in 1868. Legend has it that these crisp green treasures descended from French crabapples cultivated by an Australian grandmother by the name of Maria Ann Smith. She found the tree growing by a creek on her farm, developing from the remains of some French crabapples. After her death, the apples continued to be cultivated by local orchardists, and the rest is history. Granny Smith apples represent 12% of the total Washington apple crop.

Harvested in October, Grannies get their crunch and flavour from warm Washington days and cool nights. Bright green Grannies have a pink blush, a crisp bite and tart tangy flavour. They are excellent eaten fresh, crisp and cold, either as snacks or in salads, but their tartness really comes through when baked or sautéed. They are a favourite of Washington state pie bakers and are available for purchase year-round.

RED DELICIOUS

Did you know that the most recognizable apple in the industry was originally named “Hawkeye”? Introduced into the marketplace in 1874, Red Delicious was also a chance seedling of unknown parentage and was found first on the farm of Jesse Hiatt. Its classic heart shape and mild flavour makes Red Delicious a favourite snacking apple, and in fact, for most of the 20th century was the most popular variety in the United States. Reds represent 37% of the annual Washington apple crop.

Today, much praise is given to the apple for its exceptionally high antioxidant properties. Bright to dark red, sometimes striped, Reds are harvested in September and October and available through the year. Try eating them out-of-hand – their mildly sweet and juicy texture is best enjoyed fresh.