The pick of British apples

BRITISH APPLES are one of the nation’s bestloved fruits — and for good reason. Not only are they naturally delicious, hugely versatile, home grown and widely available in the UK, but also they have a whole host of nutritional and health benefits. Apples are about 86 per cent water, so they contribute towards your daily hydration. They also pack in quite a bit of fibre (1.8g per medium apple) for a modest calorie count (77). They have a low glycaemic index (GI) of 38 and a low glycaemic load (GL) of four, which means they release their energy more slowly, so they don’t cause the blood sugar spikes and drops that can leave us craving sugary snacks.

A Finnish study of 10,000 people showed those who frequently ate apples had a lower risk of developing type two diabetes, compared with nonapple eaters. And several studies have also linked apple consumption with a reduced risk for cancer, especially lung cancer.

A medium apple (150g) also provides useful amounts of vitamins C, K and B6, as well as minerals potassium and chloride.

You can count on an apple when it comes to the crunch.

Helen Bond is a registered dietician.

English Apples & Pears is the organisation that represents Britain’s apple growers. They support the industry, protect the environment and spread the word about the fruit. Find out more at greatbritishapples.co.uk

APPLES IN SEASON NOW

COX

England’s most famous apple — and rightly so, with a great balance of sugars and bite and a delicious honeyed aroma.

DELBARESTIVALE

Grown commercially only in England, with limited quantities, so it may be hard to get your hands on one. But it’s worth trying — Delbarestivale has an outstanding taste, combining a sweet flavour with slight tartness and a hint of aniseed. The apple also has a good aroma and a firm and juicy texture. DISCOVERY

A beautiful, red-skinned apple, hailing from Essex. Its distinctive flavour combines with a crisp bite and good levels of juice.

EGREMONT RUSSET

You’ll know it when you see it, a distinctive apple with light brown, russet skin and small cream freckles. Has a sweet and nutty taste.

ROYAL GALA

Said to be Britain’s favourite apple, with stripy red skin, a crisp bite and a wonderfully sweet flavour.

WORCESTER PEARMAIN® Named after its home town, the Worcester was introduced in 1874. The variety has a sweet taste and a unique strawberry-like flavour with a strong aromatic aroma.

ZARI

Created in Belgium, the first English crop of Zari was introduced in 2009. Bright red stripes over a green background, with a firm, crunchy texture and outstanding flavour.

greatbritishapples.co.uk