Apples are the most widely available fruit in the US, surpassing oranges and bananas, with over 7,000 varieties. Their cultivation emphasizes shape, flavor, yield, and resistance to disease. While the number of named varieties has decreased from 17,000 in the mid-19th century, interest in heirloom varieties like Northern Spy and Gravenstein is growing. New varieties like Cosmic Crisp and SugarBee are also becoming popular. Proper selection involves choosing firm apples without blemishes, and storing them in cold conditions to maintain crispness and longevity.
There are over 7,000 named types of apples, offering a variety of flavors and textures that are perfect for snacking, baking, or cooking in recipes.
Farmers cultivate apple varieties for shape, taste, high production yield, and resistance to pests and disease, showcasing the evolution of apples over thousands of years.
A renewed interest in heirloom and regional varieties has led to a rise in lesser-known types like Northern Spy and Gravenstein amidst popular new varieties like Cosmic Crisp.
When buying apples, look for firm specimens without blemishes and avoid storing bruised apples with whole ones, as they can spoil faster.
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