Apple is a fruit originating from an Asian apple tree. Apples grow in temperate climate zone in nearly 10 thousands varieties. The most common include: Champion, Ligol, Jonagored, Jonagold, Idared and Reneta. Apples are currently the most popular fruits grown in Polish orchards and gardens.
Apple tree fruits come in a distinctive, rounded shape, while their pulp, depending on the variety, can be soft or hard, sweet or even tart. Apple is covered with a relatively hard peel, which depending on the variety can be green, red or yellow, uniform or coloured in so called blush.
Applies contain vast amounts of fibre and natural pectin having a beneficial effect on the human body as a whole but are also a valuable source of antioxidants. Regular consumption of apples regulates the digestive system and stimulates metabolism. Pectin contained in apples support proper composition of bacterial flora. In addition, apples are a source of many vitamins and minerals necessary for proper body functioning, including in particular vitamin C and potassium, phosphorus, calcium, sodium, magnesium and iron.
Vast majority of valuable nutrients accumulates directly under the peel that is why apples should be consumed with it. Thanks to their properties, apples have a highly positive impact on inherent immunity and prevent development of infections – that is why they are recommended in particular in the autumn and winter season.
The most valuable nutrients are available in raw apples. These fruits are also used as an ingredient of many dishes and preserves. Baked apples are used in cakes and desserts. Purred apples are used in salads and desserts. Dried fruits are a healthy, natural snack – a substitute of chips. Apples can be also easily used as an additive to meats. In processing industry, apples are used for production of juices, beverages, jams and preserves.