DID YOU KNOW?  // There are over 7,000 varieties of apples and they’ve been grown for thousands of years in Asia and Europe. Our cooler Sierra foothill nights create the best possible growing environment for a wide variety of them, including Gravenstein, Gala, Jonathan, and Golden Delicious. The aforementioned types tend to be the early harvest, followed by Red Delicious, Granny Smith, Fuji, and Rome. As one of the most cultivated and consumed fruits in the world, they’re continuously touted as being a “miracle food.” 

NUTRITION  //  Apples are a low-calorie snack and a good source of vitamin C, fiber, flavonoids, and important antioxidants. What’s more, they’re energy-dense and water-rich, making you feel full, and free of fat, sodium, and cholesterol. Chewing an apple helps clean your teeth and stimulates your gums (one of the many great reasons to pack them in a lunch). Try to avoid peeling them, as many of the beneficial nutrients are contained in the skin.  

SELECTION AND STORAGE  //  Apples store best in a cool environment, like a crisper drawer. Discard ones that are decaying, as the gas they produce will turn any surrounding fruit bad as well. To prevent browning of pre-sliced apples for packed lunches, simply dip apple slices in lemon juice. For extended storage, space slices on a cookie sheet, freeze, and then transfer to bags.

by Carol Arnold

For details on where to buy Placer County farm-fresh produce, wine, meat, and local products, visit placergrown.org.