Apples are one of nature’s super fruits, providing rich varieties of tart and sweet flavors and offering an excellent source of many vitamins and minerals.
Health Benefits
While an apple a day may not keep every doctor away, research has shown that apples can have many health benefits. Regular consumption of apples has been associated with:
- Improved cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol
- Keeping you feeling full longer
- Helping move food through the digestive system
- Protection from some types of cancer
Selection
When choosing an apple for cooking or eating, look for apples that have vibrant coloring, are firm to the touch and are free from physical damage such as bruising.
- Eating apples: are crisp, juicy and sweet and include Honeycrisp, Fuji, Red Delicious, Gala, and Braeburn varieties.
- Cooking apples: are firm and maintain structure when heated and include Pippin, Granny Smith, Jonagold, and Gravenstein varieties.
Before eating or cooking, always rinse apples in cool, clean water.
Storage
- Whole apples: can be stored in the refrigerator for 1-3 weeks in a plastic bag in the crisper drawer. Make several holes in the bag for ventilation.
- Sliced apples: can be stored in the refrigerator for several days in an airtight container with lemon juice to prevent browning.
Did You Know?
You can get the most nutrition and flavor from an apple by leaving the skin on.
Apple peels are packed with vitamins A and C, as well as many important minerals and antioxidants.
Try incorporating an unpeeled apple into your next snack:
- Sliced
and dipped in nut butter. - Diced
as a topping on your favorite salad. - Prepared
in a baked dessert such as an apple crisp, pie, or tart.
