This week, The English Apple Man explores the changes happening in fruit choices, varietal changes and packaging improvements
Apple growers in Japan's Aomori prefecture have turned to peaches to help manage the effects of climate change.
Peach production almost doubles as growers diversify to manage rising temperatures
According to a report from The Japan Times, the climate in the region has changed, with higher temperatures affecting certain apple varieties. One grower noted early-season varieties were affected in particular.
"I think everyone has noticed that these varieties no longer suit the climate here," said a 47-year-old farmer in Hirakawa in the prefecture," said 47-year-old Hirakawa grower Ono
Regular readers of The English Apple Man Journal will be aware of my frequent articles about new variety development.
The continuing release of new apple varieties bred in all parts of the world is fascinating. The majority 'it must be said' are yet another red apple. This week I bought a pack of Red Pop in Waitrose and a bag of polybag of Jazz.
Today (Friday) I saw the traditional; Cox and Egremont Russet on display next to the current market leaders Braeburn and Gala
Cox Orange Pippin
This is the classic English apple, often regarded as the finest of all dessert apples It arose in England in the 19th century as a chance seedling, and has inspired apple lovers ever since. It remains unsurpassed for its richness and complexity of flavour.
Cox Orange Pippin grown by The English Apple Man's family since the 1920's
Once the number one English dessert apple, it is now fifth in the pecking order.
Egremont Russet.
First recorded in 1872 this is the apple that most regard as the very best of the russets. Believed to have been bred by the Earl of Egremont in Petworth, West Sussex, this is the wonderful Egremont Russet.
Egremont Russet, grown by The English Apple Man and his family since the 1970's
Below: British Jazz polybag apples from Waitrose
The Jazz Apple, trademarked as JAZZtm and botanically known as Malus domestica 'Scifresh', is a modern apple variety celebrated for its explosive crunch, balanced sweet-tangy flavour, and vibrant coloration. Originating in New Zealand, this premium cultivar has become a global favourite, prized for its consistent quality, portability, and versatility in fresh and cooked applications. As a club variety managed by ENZA (now part of T&G Global), Jazz Apples are grown under strict quality controls, ensuring a superior eating experience.
Below: Red Pop apples first appeared in Waitrose in 2022
RedPopR the apple-shaped snack, has already won over customers and consumers worldwide. Following its success in Asia, the little big sweetness marketed by the VOG Consortium has reached a new milestone in the UK: it is available in Waitrose & Partners stores in a six-fruit pack;
The British retailer's choice confirms the qualities of RedPopR, a perfect snack to hold in your hand, pocket or backpack so you can enjoy a pop break at any time.
RedPopR has already received overwhelming praise from our partners in many international markets, comment's Hannes Tauber, Marketing Manager at VOG. Click on: VOG
"This is certainly due to its characteristics, such as its exceptional sweetness and crunchiness, but also to its distinctive positioning as a snack and its fresh, pop brand identity, which stands out at the point of sale and also appeals to a younger audience.
Packaging changes
Over the years polybags in various formats have delivered apples & pears (plus many other commodities) from the supplier to the Supermarket shelves. finding ways to be more environmentally acceptable, without losing the advantages of the polybag are ongoing. But this pack format carrying the Red Pop (shown below) is now being used by some marketeers and Supermarkets.
Click on: The English Apple Man - New apple varieties
That is all for this week
Take care
The English Apple Man