Basic Introduction to Zhaotong Apples
The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences' Research Institute of Fruit Trees designated Zhaotong as one of the most suitable areas for apple cultivation in China. Compared with northern apple-producing regions, Zhaotong apples have four major advantages: Firstly, ecological advantage. The climate here is mild with no severe cold in winter or extreme heat in summer, small annual temperature differences but large daily ones, ample sunlight, moderate rainfall, and abundant light, thermal, and water resources, making it an ideal area for growing apples. Due to its location on the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, the area experiences strong ultraviolet rays and significant day-night temperature differences, which promote rapid accumulation of organic matter, greatly benefiting apple growth. From a production standpoint, Zhaotong and Luxi counties are agricultural powerhouses with clean air, free from industrial pollution, providing unique natural conditions for the production of non-polluted apples. Secondly, quality advantage. Thanks to the unique natural environment, Zhaotong apples boast bright colors, tender and crisp flesh, a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, rich juice, and intense flavor. They have won numerous awards for being among the best fruits in the province and at the Second National Agricultural Exposition, where they received a silver medal. Zhaotong apples are well-known throughout southwest China, Guangdong and Guangxi provinces, and Southeast Asia. Thirdly, early ripening advantage. Zhaotong apples ripen about one month earlier than those in northern regions. When northern apples are not yet ripe, Zhaotong apples are already on the market. Early varieties ripen in mid-July, while late varieties are ready by mid-September, offering a significant competitive edge in terms of sales time and market share over northern regions. Fourthly, geographical advantage and broad market. Zhaotong City is located at the intersection of Yunnan, Guizhou, and Sichuan provinces. These provinces do not produce apples due to climatic factors. Compared with major domestic apple-producing regions like Shandong and Shaanxi, Zhaotong has a geographical advantage and has established a stable consumer base through years of sales. Zhaotong apples can be transported north to Sichuan and Chongqing, east to Guizhou, Hunan, and Hubei, and south to Guangdong and Guangxi. In addition, it takes only three days to transport them southward to Southeast Asia, from the field to the dining table. Zhaotong apples are sold in Hong Kong, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, and other regions. The establishment of the ASEAN Free Trade Area provides even broader market opportunities for Zhaotong apples.
Nutritional Value
Apples are excellent for beauty, aiding weight loss and making the skin smooth and supple. They are low-calorie foods, generating only 60 kilocalories per 100 grams; the nutrients in apples are highly soluble and easily absorbed by the body, hence their nickname as “living water.” This helps dissolve sulfur compounds, keeping the skin smooth and supple.
Product Characteristics
Golden Delicious apples average 180 grams in weight and are oblong in shape. Those grown at lower altitudes tend to be more round. The fruit's skin is yellow-green when young, turning golden yellow when ripe. The flesh is fine-grained, slightly sweet, fragrant, and ideal for fresh consumption. However, the apples are prone to developing rust and become mealy after storage.
Tasting and Eating Methods
They can be eaten raw or cooked, made into dried fruit, jams, jellies, and used in many desserts. Before eating raw or cooking, rinse the apple thoroughly in cold water. If left exposed to air, the flesh will oxidize and turn brown. To prevent oxidation, consume immediately or cook according to specific recipes. To cook apples, use enough water and simmer gently. To speed up the process, slice the apples and microwave them for 2 minutes. Depending on the variety, you may need to add sugar or mix with other fruits. After cooking, the content of polyphenols, natural antioxidants, in apples significantly increases, helping to lower blood sugar levels and fight inflammation and bacteria.