Apples are one of the most popular and widely consumed fruits in India, known for their crisp texture, sweet-tart flavor, and numerous health benefits. India grows several varieties of apples, each with distinct characteristics, origins, and growing regions. Here, we explore some of the most notable apple varieties in India, including their origins, history, where they are found, availability, and unique properties.
Contents
1. Kinnaur Apple
- Origin: Himachal Pradesh, India
- History: Grown in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, these apples are known for their high quality.
- Found in: Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh
- Availability: October to March
- Unique Property: Known for their sweetness, juiciness, and crisp texture. These apples are rich in flavor and have a bright red color.
2. Shimla Apple
- Origin: Himachal Pradesh, India
- History: Named after the Shimla district where they are predominantly grown.
- Found in: Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, and Chamba districts of Himachal Pradesh
- Availability: September to December
- Unique Property: Known for their deep red color and sweet-tart flavor. These apples are firm and have a long shelf life.
3. Golden Delicious
- Origin: West Virginia, USA
- History: Introduced to India for its adaptability and commercial viability.
- Found in: Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand
- Availability: September to March
- Unique Property: Known for their yellow skin and sweet, mild flavor. They are versatile and can be used for fresh eating, baking, and cooking.
4. Red Delicious
- Origin: Iowa, USA
- History: Introduced to India for its high yield and commercial value.
- Found in: Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttarakhand
- Availability: September to April
- Unique Property: Known for their bright red skin, mildly sweet flavor, and crisp texture. Often used in fresh salads and as a snack.
Also, read: Different Types of Melons You Need to Know Now
5. Ambri Apple
- Origin: Jammu & Kashmir, India
- History: A traditional variety grown in the Kashmir Valley, known for its unique flavor and texture.
- Found in: Jammu & Kashmir
- Availability: October to March
- Unique Property: Known for their distinct flavor, crisp texture, and greenish-red color. Often referred to as the “King of Apples” in Kashmir.
6. McIntosh
- Origin: Canada
- History: Introduced to India for its unique flavor and adaptability to Indian climates.
- Found in: Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir
- Availability: September to February
- Unique Property: Known for their red and green skin, tart flavor, and tender flesh. Excellent for making applesauce and cider.
7. Granny Smith
- Origin: Australia
- History: Introduced to India for its unique tart flavor and adaptability.
- Found in: Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand
- Availability: October to March
- Unique Property: Known for their bright green skin, tart flavor, and firm, crisp texture. Ideal for baking and cooking.
8. Fuji
- Origin: Japan
- History: Introduced to India for its sweet flavor and long shelf life.
- Found in: Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir
- Availability: October to April
- Unique Property: Known for their sweet flavor, dense flesh, and long shelf life. Excellent for fresh eating.
9. Gala
- Origin: New Zealand
- History: Introduced to India for its sweet flavor and high yield.
- Found in: Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand
- Availability: September to March
- Unique Property: Known for their pinkish-orange skin, sweet, crisp flavor, and versatility. Popular for fresh eating and in salads.
10. Honeycrisp
- Origin: Minnesota, USA
- History: Introduced to India for its exceptionally crisp and juicy texture.
- Found in: Himachal Pradesh and Jammu & Kashmir
- Availability: September to November
- Unique Property: Known for their balanced sweet-tart flavor and exceptional crispness. Ideal for fresh eating.
Also, watch web stories: The Role of Trees in Combating Respiratory Diseases
Nutrition Chart of Apples
Apples are not just delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. Here’s a general nutritional profile of apples per 100 grams:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 52 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 14 g |
| Sugars | 10 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g |
| Protein | 0.3 g |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| Vitamin A | 3 µg |
| Vitamin C | 4.6 mg |
| Vitamin E | 0.2 mg |
| Vitamin K | 2.2 µg |
| Potassium | 107 mg |
| Magnesium | 5 mg |
| Phosphorus | 11 mg |
| Folate | 3 µg |
| Calcium | 6 mg |
| Iron | 0.1 mg |
| Zinc | 0.1 mg |
| Thiamine (B1) | 0.01 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.03 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.04 mg |
