Washington Apple Farming

More than half of all fresh apples sold in the U.S. are grown in Washington.

Washington ranks first in the United States for apple production. More than 150,000 acres of farmland are dedicated to the Washington apple crop, and the tree fruit industry (of which apples are the main component) is responsible for 1.5 percent of the state's total income. The apple industry is also becoming a tourist draw. The Washington Apple Commission Visitor Center offers complimentary apple slices and juice, informational exhibits and a film on the history of the industry. Admission is free.

Harvest

Approximately 10 to 12 billion apples are harvested each year in Washington state, which is equivalent to 100,000,000 40-pound crates. Each of those apples is handpicked without machines. The harvest begins in August and runs through November, with most Washington apples available to consumers virtually year-round.

Varieties

Red Delicious apples are the top-selling variety in the United States, and make up about one-third of Washington's apple crop. Gala, Fuji, Granny Smith and Golden Delicious apples round out Washington's top five. Less commonly grown are the Cripps Pink, Honeycrisp, Braeburn and Cameo varieties. Apple producers harvest other varieties in limited quantities for local sale. Some apple producers in Washington also have exclusive commitments to grow, pack and market newly bred "club" varieties. The club industry seeks to find the next consumer favorite apple.

Safety

According to the Washington Apple Commission, "the growers and packers of Washington know they have a special obligation to deliver a safe and nutritious product to the tables of their many valued customers" State and federal regulations applying to cleaning and storage of apples are reportedly observed or exceeded. Apple crates are also marked with their point of origin in the event a trace is required.

Transportation and Storage

After each Washington apple is washed and rinsed, a thin layer of wax is applied to protect the freshness of the fruit. The Washington Apple Commission suggests this process replaces the apple's natural waxy coating, which is depleted by the cleaning process. Non-petroleum formulas of shellac or carnuba wax are FDA-approved for prevention of moisture loss and shriveling during storage and transport of apples. Although it is not harmful, consumers are advised to rinse off the wax with cool water.

Organic Apples

Approximately one-quarter of the state's apple packers have organic certification, and all of Washington state's nine primary apple varieties are available from organic facilities. The Washington Apple Commission explains that the state's climate and soil are naturally suited to grow apples without chemical intervention. Organic facilities are inspected annually, and organic apples are clearly marked with USDA Organic stickers. Over 80 percent of organic apples produced in the U.S. are grown in Washington state.

References

• Washington State Department of Agriculture: Agriculture: A Cornerstone of Washington's Economy
• Washington Apples
• "Economic Impact of the Tree Fruit Industry in Washington State and the Northwest." William S. Jensen, PhD: August 2004