An apple a day keeps the doctor away

Yep, you’ve heard the saying.

I recently chatted to ABC Landline about Aussie apples. You can view the full episode here.

Here are a few fun facts you may not have known about this incredible Aussie grown fruit:

APPLE FUN FACTS

Apples are rich in polyphenols, a group of antioxidants, which have powerful impacts on our health. Quercitin, one of these polyphenols is found in the apple peel, so never peel your apples. Other phenolics in apples include anthocyanins, chlorogenic acid and catechins.
The redder the apple, generally the higher the antioxidants.
Apples support our immunity thanks to the goodness of vitamin C.
Apples are 85% water so they offer hydration as well a range of essential nutrients.
Apples are perfect for the busy person on the go. No slicing or dicing required and no mess to clean up. Just get your crunch on!
Apples are a fantastic snack as they have a low GI. A study on 38,000 women revealed a 28% reduction of diabetes risk eating an apple a day.
Apples have a whopping 4g fibre in every piece of fruit. The unique nutrient that whole foods have. Fibre is the complex matrix that binds fruit, veg and nuts together. It fills us up, it slows digestion and absorption, keeping our blood sugar levels steady. It’s the fuel our gut needs to function optimally.
Most apples grown in Australia are sold in Australia. Only 1% are exported overseas!
Did you know apples are grown in all states of Australia? The biggest growing regions are Stanthorpe, QLD; Batlow and Orange, NSW; Goulburn Valley, Gippsland, Yarra Valley and Mornington Peninsula, VIC; Huon Valley, TAS and Adelaide Hills, SA.
Apples grown in Australia are mostly used for eating as they are, just as nature intended. Whilst 70% of apples are sold as apples, 30% are used for canning and juicing. I love that consumers are demanding whole apples over more processed forms!
My favourite ways to eat apples: Thrown into a salad for a burst of sweetness and hydration, on top of my morning muesli, and thrown into my handbag for a non-squishable snack when I’m out and about.