Did you know that apples have no cholesterol or sodium, are low in calories, are less than 1 percent fat, are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, can help reduce stress and can fight tooth decay? Well they can and Maine apples are the best source for all these health benefits.
Maine’s apple harvesting begins in late August and generally lasts through October. There are 18 varieties of apple grown in state. The Jersey Mac and the McIntosh may be the most well known varieties.
Jersey Macs are usually available starting in late August. McIntosh apples are the most popular New England variety. They are sweet and tart, tender and crisp. They are excellent for eating and are also good for cooking and long-term storage. These apples are usually available starting in mid-September.
Cortlands are a favorite apple for cooking. Spartan apples are good for making apples pies and also for eating. Macouns are a good all-purpose apple, which is extra crisp and sweet. These three varieties of apples are available starting in late September.
Maine’s newest variety of apple is the Honeycrisp, which originated in Minnesota as a cross between a Honeygold and a Macoun. These apples have been grown in Maine for the past decade.
Coming in October are Gala apples. This dense, tasty apple was developed in New Zealand, and is excellent for eating. It’s sweet and firmer and more darkly colored than a McIntosh.
Crabapples are good for making jelly. Winter Banana is a hard yellow apple. The Spencer is a large, firm, late maturing red apple with a tangy, sweet flavor.
No matter which apples are your favorite, be sure to get out to your local apple orchard to pick your own or buy fresh-picked.
For more information about Maine apples, and local apple orchards, go online to www.getrealgetmaine.com.
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