ONCE upon a time, a captivating Polish folktale whispered of a remarkable apple tree, bearing the gift of golden apples.
Legend had it that those fortunate enough to taste these magical fruits would be bestowed with eternal youth and beauty.
However, this enchanted tree was fiercely guarded by a formidable dragon, challenging only the boldest and most cunning individuals to embark on a perilous quest for a single apple.
But fear not, for acquiring a taste of this forbidden fruit need not entail such daring exploits. A simple visit to the local grocers can unveil a vast array of apples from all corners of the globe.
Poland stands proudly as a prominent force in the global apple production realm. Year after year, its annual yield surpasses a staggering 4 million tons, solidifying apples as the most cherished and cultivated fruit across the nation.
Renowned for their exceptional quality and irresistible flavour, Polish apples are highly sought after and exported to numerous countries worldwide.
In a bid to promote Polish apples and harness the support of the European Union, the Polish Fruit Union has launched a captivating campaign, "Fresh from the Orchards of Poland: Apples from the Heart of Europe."
This initiative seeks to illuminate the abundance of European apples, with a special focus on Poland, through engaging promotional endeavours in Malaysia.
With this vision in mind, a delegation comprising media representatives and fruit importers from Malaysia and Thailand embarked on a captivating study tour. Their destination: the sprawling apple orchards of Poland.
There, they witnessed firsthand the meticulous cultivation, processing, and preparation of this beloved fruit, destined for far-flung lands, far beyond the lair of any mystical dragon and its precious bounty.
Poland boasts an impressive landscape of over 20,000 apple orchards, spanning a vast expanse of 90,000 hectares.
Within these orchards thrive a captivating assortment of apple varieties, including Gala, Najdared, Red Chief, Golden Delicious, Jonagold, Red Delicious, and Red Jonaprince, to name but a few.
One such destination that captured our attention was Grojec, a town located approximately 40km south of Warsaw.
This region proudly claims the title of Europe's largest apple orchard, its sprawling terrain a testament to the country's commitment to apple cultivation.
Fascinatingly, statistical records reveal that every third apple sold in Poland traces its origins back to Grojec, owing to the area's distinctive microclimate that imparts the apples with their striking crimson hue.
Such a combination of natural elements has elevated Grojec to a significant hub in the realm of apple cultivation.
The tour of the orchards unveiled a captivating glimpse into the art of apple cultivation, from the careful nurturing of young saplings to the precise harvest and meticulous storage techniques employed to ensure a consistent supply of apples year-round, both for local consumption and export.
To ensure precision, authorised growers will submit crop samples, seeds, or soil to a laboratory approved by the Polish Ministry of Agriculture.
Rigorously examining molecules, cultivating plant tissue, and conducting comprehensive tests, including analysing for living insects, soil composition, and symptom evaluation, guarantees meticulous inspection and accurate results.
Notably, many Polish apple growers embrace sustainable farming practices, such as integrated pest management, reduced chemical usage, water conservation, and soil health management.
These conscientious approaches make Polish apples an ideal choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
The apple harvest season typically commences at the end of August and extends through late October. To guarantee only the finest fruits grace the market, Polish apples are often lovingly hand-picked, meticulously selecting the cream of the crop.
Stored in climate- and oxygen-controlled warehouses, they patiently await their journey to the packing centre, where they undergo meticulous processing and preparation for their destined exportation.
While sorting and packing may incorporate machinery and automation, the final stamp of quality control remains a human touch.
Diligent workers assess each apple as it gracefully descends the conveyor belt, ensuring that only the most exquisite specimens earn a place within the carefully packaged crates.
Now, what becomes of the slightly blemished or aesthetically imperfect fruits? Fear not, for they find purpose and transformation.
These apples are crafted into tantalising apple juice, cider, apple brandy, apple sauce, canned apples, frozen peeled apples for culinary adventures, dried fruits, and a plethora of other delectable creations.
The versatility of apples knows no bounds, transcending savoury dishes like the Polish favourite of roast duck with apples, to decadent sweet treats like apple pie and an array of mouthwatering desserts.
So, the next time you stroll through the market or venture into the grocer's domain, keep an eye out for Polish apples.
Embrace the crisp, juicy crunch and savour the explosion of flavours that these remarkable fruits, fresh from Poland's fertile soil, offer to those seeking a truly delightful experience. – The Vibes, July 10, 2023
This study tour was initiated by the European Fruit Union and the Association of Polish Fruit and Vegetable Distributors and is co-financed by the European Union Fund Campaign.
The Vibes’ internet connection throughout this journey was powered by RoamingMan Malaysia. For great uninterrupted internet connection while travelling, click here.
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