Is anyone “the mango of your eye”? Ever heard of a “plum polisher”? Does “a fig a day keep the doctor away”? There’s good reason that there are more sayings about apples than about any other fruit. Apples are the most varied food on the planet, according to the U.S. Apple Association. There are more than 7,500 known varieties of apples grown worldwide and about 2,500 varieties grown in the United States.

With this great diversity it’s no wonder they’ve become such a part of our lives. Ranging in texture from tender to crisp and in flavor from sweet to tart, apples are perfect for snacking or for whipping up a pie. Plus, they’re a good source of fiber and vitamins A and C as well as antioxidants.

Autumn is a great time to enjoy your favorites fresh from the orchards—or try some of the new varieties. Use our guide to help you make the best match.

Apple Tips

Buying:  1 lb. apples = about 2 ¾ cups pared and sliced apples
              2 lbs. apples = 6-8 medium or enough for one 9” pie

Freezing:  Wash, peel, quarter and core apples; slice as desired.  Treat with Fruit-Fresh Produce Protector (prevents browning) according to package directions.  Dry pack with or without sugar or use a syrup pack.

Storing: The best way to store apples is inside a plastic bag in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator.

Pies: To make a 9-inch pie, you will need 2 pounds of apples (6–8 medium apples).