U.S. Apple Harvest Breaks Records, Producers Get Creative to Manage Surplus
The U.S. Apple Association predicts a bumper harvest for the 2025-2026 crop year, with total production expected to reach 11.7 billion pounds. This significant increase, up 1.3% from last season, is putting pressure on an already oversupplied market. However, producers and home cooks are finding creative ways to utilise the surplus, ensuring no apple goes to waste.
The abundance and quality of U.S. apples have been praised by Chris Gerlach from USApple. With a projected crop of 278.5 million bushels, growers are turning to various methods to preserve and repurpose the surplus. Preservation techniques such as canning, making jams and jellies, and drying are being widely employed to extend the apple season.
Apples are not only being used in traditional desserts like pies and crisps, but also in a variety of drinks. Cider makers and home cooks are incorporating apples into hot ciders, sparkling punches, smoothies, and mulled drinks. Even condiments like apple chutney are being created to utilise the surplus. No apple recipe is complete without chips or rings dried until crisp, adding a unique touch to various dishes.
The U.S. apple industry is gearing up for a record-breaking harvest, with innovative solutions being implemented to manage the surplus. From preservation methods to creative culinary uses, the apple surplus is being turned into a variety of products, keeping the harvest in demand and minimising waste. The U.S. Apple Association's projection of 11.7 billion pounds for the 2025-2026 crop year highlights the importance of these efforts in the face of an oversupplied market.
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