Early Arrival for Pennsylvania Apples

Media Contact:
Teri Hurst, thurst@pposinc.com
717-232-1898

(Harrisburg, PA) – Thanks to an early spring bloom and a hot summer, Pennsylvania’s apple crop is hitting grocery shelves and area produce stands about two weeks early this year. And don’t let the smaller size fool you; these apples pack a ton of flavor.

"Because of the hot, dry weather the apples did not grow as big as usual. But the unusual weather produced fruit with more sugar than normal, and you can taste the extra sweetness,” said Karin Rodriguez, executive director of the Pennsylvania Apple Marketing Program (PAMP).

Apples make a great healthy on-the-go snack and are the perfect addition for a packed lunch. They’re a healthy source of antioxidants, high in fiber, fat-free, cholesterol-free and sodium-free. “One medium apple that is about the size of your fist equals one fruit serving,” said Rodriguez. “And because they come in their own container, they really are nature’s perfect snack.”

The popular varieties Ginger Gold®, Gala and Honeycrisp™ can now be found in farm markets and on grocery store shelves across the state. But for more local favorites, consumers are encouraged to visit their area farm markets. PAMP’s website, www.pennsylvaniaapples.org, lists Pennsylvania farm markets that feature fresh apples and pick-your-own.

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The Pennsylvania Apple Marketing Program is a commodity marketing program established by the Commodity Marketing Act of 1968. The program is funded by apple growers and governed by a Board of Directors. The Board is composed of growers from various regions of the state and a representative from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture. Their website is www.pennsylvaniaapples.org.

 The farm markets listed on the website represent apple producers who are members of the Pennsylvania Apple Marketing Program. For additional farm market locations in Pennsylvania, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s Market Search.