Ambrosia New Zealand apples are a type of apple that originated from New Zealand and are popular for their delicious taste and high nutritional value. In this article, let’s explore the origin, characteristics, and price of this apple!
1 Origin of Ambrosia New Zealand apples
The Ambrosia apple was first discovered in 1987 in Canada. Initially, this apple tree grew and developed naturally, with no known origin. The garden owner named this apple variety Ambrosia, meaning “delicious and fragrant” due to its distinctive pinkish-red color with yellow stripes.
The Ambrosia apple has a medium size, about 15-20 cm. The skin is bright pink with yellow stripes, and the flesh is creamy white, crisp, and firm. The Ambrosia apple has a gentle sweet flavor, not sour, and is very easy to eat.
Currently, Ambrosia apples are widely grown in North America, Europe, Chile, and New Zealand. These regions have suitable climates, with ample sunlight and cool nights, which create ideal conditions for producing delicious and sweet Ambrosia apples.
In New Zealand, Ambrosia apples are harvested from February to August in the Gregorian calendar. After harvesting, the apples are carefully preserved in cold storage to maintain their freshness and crispness for a long time.
2 Size and packaging of Ambrosia New Zealand apples
Ambrosia New Zealand apples are exported in various sizes and packaging methods. The sizes and packaging options include:
- Size 36: Packed in containers weighing about 15kg of Ambrosia apples.
- Size 48, 56, 64, 72, 80, 88, 100, 113, 125, 138: Packed in containers weighing about 18kg of Ambrosia apples.
Containers weighing 15-18kg are usually used for exporting to other countries, while 1kg and 2kg bags are commonly packaged and sold in supermarkets and traditional markets.
3 Nutritional value of Ambrosia apples
Ambrosia New Zealand apples contain many essential nutrients and vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, and fiber. Especially, Ambrosia apples have a high concentration of antioxidants, which help prevent age-related diseases and enhance the immune system.
Below is the nutritional information of 100g of Ambrosia apples:
Nutrition index | Value |
---|---|
Energy | 48 kcal |
Carbohydrate | 12g |
Sugar | 10g |
Protein | 0.4g |
Fiber | 2g |
Fat | 0.1g |
Vitamin A | 5% |
Vitamin C | 8% |
Calcium | 1% |
Iron | 1% |
In addition, Ambrosia apples are rich in vitamin E, which improves digestion and enhances gut health.
4 Health benefits of Ambrosia apples
Weight loss: Due to their low calorie content and high fiber content, Ambrosia apples are an excellent choice for those who want to lose weight or maintain their current weight.
Cardiovascular protection: The antioxidants in Ambrosia apples can help reduce the risk of heart disease and fight cardiovascular disorders.
Cancer prevention: The quercetin in Ambrosia apples has antioxidant properties and may help eliminate harmful free radicals from the body.
Improved digestion: The high fiber content in Ambrosia apples has a positive effect on the digestive system, reducing the risk of constipation and colon cancer.
Enhanced immune system: Vitamin C and antioxidants in Ambrosia apples can strengthen the immune system and help the body defend against infectious diseases.
5 Tips for choosing fresh Ambrosia apples
Tips for choosing fresh Ambrosia apples
When buying Ambrosia apples, you should choose fruits that have an even yellow-red color, no black spots or bruises on the surface, shiny skin, no wrinkles, and feel heavy when held.
Here are some tips for choosing fresh Ambrosia apples:
- Choose apples that have an even yellow-red color, shiny skin, and no signs of cracks or damage.
- Avoid buying apples that have expired.
- Taste the apple before buying to experience the flavor and ripeness of the fruit.
- If possible, buy apples from reputable stores or reliable orchards.
Due to being an imported apple from New Zealand, Ambrosia apples have a relatively high price compared to ordinary apples. However, for those who appreciate the taste and nutritional value of apples, Ambrosia apples are an excellent choice.
6 Proper storage of Ambrosia apples
To keep Ambrosia apples fresh and usable for a long time, you should follow these principles:
- Store apples at room temperature, avoid direct sunlight.
- If you want to preserve them for a long time, you can store apples in the refrigerator in the fruit and vegetable compartment.
- Avoid getting the apple skin wet when in storage
to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold.
- Do not wash the apple before storage as it will increase moisture and reduce the shelf life.
Hopefully, this article has provided you with a better understanding of the origin, characteristics, and nutritional value of Ambrosia apples and offered you a suitable choice.