Podcast Summary
Exploring the World of Apples: History, Science, and Culture: Apple picking season brings together history, science, culture, and delicious flavors. From wild apples to domesticated varieties, apples have been a source of sustenance, scientific discovery, and celebration.
The world of apples, or pomology, is rich in history, science, and culture. Dr. Susan K. Brown, a fruit geneticist and pomologist leading Cornell University's apple breeding program, shared her expertise on apple picking tips, genetic mashups, taste tests, and the significance of apples throughout history. From wild apples to domesticated varieties, apples have been a source of sustenance, scientific discovery, and even controversy. The harvest season, typically from August to November, is a time for bumper sales, apple festivals, and celebrating the sweet, tart, and astringent flavors of this beloved fruit. Whether it's a fall wedding or a family apple orchard adventure, apples bring people together and offer a taste of the season's beauty and bounty.
Following passions in nature can lead to unique careers: Passion for nature and patience can lead to fulfilling careers in plant breeding, resulting in new and successful plant varieties.
Passion for nature and a desire to create something unique can lead to a fulfilling career, even if it requires a great deal of patience and persistence. The speaker's experiences with apple orchards, homing pigeons, and botany all contributed to her fascination with plants and fruit breeding. She recalls how her father's lessons on genetics and selection, combined with her own love for botany and plant breeding at the University of Connecticut, set her on this path. As an apple breeder, she has faced the challenge of waiting years to determine if a new variety is a success or a "spitter." To speed up the process, she has employed various methods such as using dwarfing rootstocks and cultural conditions. Her work has resulted in notable achievements, including the creation of the official apple of the Buffalo Bills and the release of award-winning varieties like Snapdragon and Rubyfrost. The speaker's journey illustrates the importance of following one's passions, even when faced with long-term challenges, and the potential rewards that come from doing so.
Collaboration between Universities, Growers, and Marketing Teams for New Apple Varieties: Strong partnerships between universities, growers, and marketing teams lead to successful new apple varieties. Growers have more input in the naming process, and the US has seen a shift in apple breeding programs compared to countries like Japan.
The development and marketing of new apple varieties is a collaborative effort between universities, growers, and marketing teams. Cornell University's apple breeding program, for instance, is funded by New York apple growers who tax themselves for research. When it comes to marketing a new variety, grower groups like "Crunch Time Apples" take the lead, even with full-time jobs. The success of a new apple variety, such as Snapdragon, is the result of a strong partnership between all involved. Another interesting point is the naming process. In the past, breeders or universities would name the apples, but now, growers have more input. Names like Snapdragon and Honeycrisp resonate well with consumers and have become popular choices. The naming process can be challenging due to the large number of existing names, with over 14,000 recorded. The history of apple breeding in the US has seen a shift, with fewer programs compared to countries like Japan, which has 47 prefectures and a breeder in almost every province. The apple world has seen significant advancements thanks to the support of universities and growers, resulting in delicious and unique varieties for consumers to enjoy.
Apple trees diversity from seeds vs clonal propagation: Apple trees diversity comes from natural pollination and seeds, while clonal propagation creates genetic copies. Johnny Appleseed spread apple seeds for religious reasons, leading to a mix of apple trees.
The diversity of apple trees comes from the random nature of pollination, and the only way to create a genetic copy of an apple tree is through clonal propagation. Johnny Appleseed, an early American figure, understood this and instead of bringing buds or trees to settlers, he distributed apple seeds, which led to a mix of unnamed trees. Apples originated in Central Asia, and the wild varieties there have unpredictable sizes, textures, and tastes due to natural pollination. Over time, larger, sweeter apples were favored by animals and humans, leading to the propagation of those types. Apple trees were then transported along trade routes, including the Silk Road, and spread around the world. Johnny Appleseed, however, opposed grafting different trees together and instead used seeds to spread his religious beliefs.
The history of apples and their spread around the world: Apples have spread around the world through travel, resulting in new varieties through introgression. Europeans introduced apples to North America, which were then cross-bred with native varieties. Apples were used for safe drinking water and the government encouraged planting. Regional variations create unique tastes and smells.
The history of apples and their spread around the world is a long and fascinating one. For thousands of years, people traveled along the Silk Road, bringing seeds and animals with them that led to new apple varieties through a process called introgression. When Europeans came to North America, they found native apples that were small and sour, and they crossed-bred them with the seeds they brought. Apples were used for safe drinking water as much as for food or cider. The government encouraged apple planting for this reason. Despite similar geographies, apples can have vastly different tastes and smells due to regional variations. For example, Gravenstein apples, which originated in a monastery in Europe, are now a popular variety in California. The history of apples is full of interesting stories and nuances, from ancient caravan journeys to modern apple fairs.
The Significance of Historical Apple Varieties and Genetic Discoveries: Historical apple varieties, like Isopus Spitzenberg, hold significance despite lower yields or specific issues. Genetic discoveries, such as transposable elements, revolutionized genetics and continue to impact modern agriculture.
The history of apple production involves both successes and challenges. Some apple varieties, like Thomas Jefferson's favorite Isopus Spitzenberg, may not meet modern expectations due to lower yields or specific issues that make them less profitable. However, their historical significance and unique flavors continue to intrigue people. Meanwhile, the discovery of transposable elements or "jumping genes" in apples and other organisms revolutionized the field of genetics. Barbara McClintock's groundbreaking research on these elements was initially met with skepticism but ultimately led to her receiving the Nobel Prize in Physiology and Medicine. Today, transposable elements are known to make up a significant portion of the human and corn genomes. Additionally, apple colors and flavors can be influenced by genetic changes, which can sometimes result in a loss of desirable qualities. For example, the original Delicious apple was highly striped and poorly colored, but each time it mutated for color, it lost some of its original quality and taste. Overall, the story of apples highlights the importance of both preserving historical varieties and understanding the genetic basis of their traits.
The Unique Origin of Granny Smith Apples: The Granny Smith apple's green color and tartness resulted from a chance discovery, not intentional breeding. Various apple flavors and colors can emerge from crossing different varieties.
The origin story of the Granny Smith apple, which involves a woman in Australia discarding apple pie trimmings that grew into a unique apple tree, is true. This apple, known for its green color and tartness, was developed due to consumer preference for sweeter apples. Contrary to popular belief, crossing green apples doesn't always result in desirable green apples; instead, various shades and flavors can emerge. Additionally, crab apples, which are often used ornamentally, contain high levels of acidity and astringency due to their tannin content. These compounds contribute to the sour flavors found in certain apple candies and sodas. Understanding the unique characteristics of different apple varieties and their breeding processes can lead to new discoveries and appreciation for the diverse range of flavors in this beloved fruit.
Lack of Apple-Flavored Carbonated Beverages: Though popular in other forms, apple carbonated beverages are scarce. Mexico leads with Sidral Mundet and Manzanita Soul, while Martinelli Cider is an option. Research into new apple hybrids and the existence of grapple apples continue.
Despite the popularity of apple juice, apple sauce, and other apple products, there seems to be a lack of apple-flavored carbonated beverages in the market. The apple slice soda, which contained 10% fruit juice and was available in the mid-eighties, is a prime example of this. However, Mexico has stepped up with apple sodas like Sidral Mundet and Manzanita Soul. There's also Martinelli Cider, which is sparkling apple juice. The public's demand for more apple-flavored products is clear. But there are also interesting facts about apples, such as the existence of grapple apples, which are apples soaked in concord juice flavoring. Allergies to apples and grapple apples are also worth noting. Furthermore, there's ongoing research into intercrossing pear and apple genes to create new hybrid fruits. Lastly, there's a vast collection of over 3,000 different apple varieties at the USDA in Geneva, New York, serving as a living library for heirloom apples.
Preserving genes of interest in apples: Collaboration between specialists and cold storage technology help preserve apple quality and diversity, but climate change and labor shortages pose challenges
Preserving specific genes of interest in apples is crucial, even if every apple that ever existed cannot be saved. Apples are remarkably diverse, with wild variations in quality and tree shape. Cold storage technology, developed at Cornell, allows apples to be kept in suspended animation for extended periods, ensuring their freshness and quality. Collaboration between various specialists, including plant pathologists, entomologists, food scientists, and post harvest physiologists, is essential for producing high-quality apples. Climate change and labor shortages pose significant threats to apple crops and varieties. Despite advancements in technology, most apples are still harvested by hand.
Apple industry faces labor shortage, explores robotics and automation: Despite challenges in attracting and retaining human labor due to harsh conditions and low wages, the delicate nature of apple picking and the need for careful handling make human labor an effective and valuable asset.
The apple industry is facing a significant labor shortage, leading farmers to explore robotics and automation as potential solutions. However, the intricacies of apple picking require careful handling, and robots currently lack the ability to match the speed and precision of human labor. Apple pickers must have prior experience, physical abilities, and endure harsh working conditions. The seasonal nature of the work and low wages make it challenging to attract and retain employees. While increasing wages could help, the delicate nature of apple picking and the need for careful handling make human labor an effective and valuable asset. The process of picking and clipping stems to prevent damage and spoilage adds to the complexity of the job. Understanding these intricacies can help appreciate the value of the human labor involved in apple production.
Exploring the genetics of apple quality: Genetic research on apples reveals how transcription factors, promoters, transposable elements, and genetic sports influence apple quality. Techniques like soaking in saline solution or citrus can help prevent oxidation, but russeting is a genetic trait that impacts texture and shape.
Improving the quality of apples involves understanding complex genetics and various factors that influence their appearance and texture. Apples have thousands of genes and the expression of these genes is influenced by transcription factors and promoters. Researchers have used transposable elements and genetic sports to study the differences between russeted and non-russeted parts of the same fruit. While soaking apple slices in saline solution or citrus can help prevent oxidation, the russeting itself is a genetic trait that can impact the apple's texture and ability to hold its shape. The study of apple genetics is ongoing and complex, but the discoveries made can lead to greater understanding and potential improvements in apple quality.
Understanding Apple Genetics is Complex: Genetics only explain a small percentage of apple traits, breeding requires crossing distinct varieties, and researchers explore methods like sound analysis to better understand complex traits.
Understanding the genetic makeup of organisms, including fruits like apples, is complex and involves more than just identifying specific genes. While markers associated with certain traits can provide valuable information, they may only explain a small percentage of the overall variation. Apple breeding, for instance, requires crossing genetically distinct varieties to prevent incompatibility issues. However, complex traits like yield and flavor, which are crucial to consumers and growers, can be challenging to pinpoint due to their subjective human perception. Researchers are exploring various methods, such as sound analysis, to better understand these traits. Ultimately, the goal is to use genetic information to improve apple quality and consumer satisfaction, but the process is complex and ongoing.
Consuming large amounts of black licorice can lead to health issues: Limit black licorice intake to 2 ounces per day after age 40 due to potential health risks, while careful taste panel preparation ensures accurate food evaluation.
Consuming large amounts of black licorice can lead to health issues, including low potassium levels, pseudo hyper aldosteronism, irregular heartbeats, and even cardiovascular failure. The FDA and American Heart Association recommend limiting black licorice intake to 2 ounces per day after the age of 40. On a related note, tasting and evaluating food, such as apples, requires careful consideration and a well-prepared taste panel to ensure accurate results. This involves avoiding visual biases, recruiting experienced tasters, and providing proper lighting. For those considering growing apples in their backyard, it's important to consider factors such as sunlight availability, deer protection, access to necessary tools, and the use of pesticides. While growing your own apples can be rewarding, it also comes with challenges and additional responsibilities.
Reducing the need for apple sprays with sticky spheres: Using sticky spheres with lures can help reduce the need for apple sprays, but fallen apples should not be used due to potential toxins.
Growing apples at home can be rewarding but comes with a learning curve and potential costs, including the use of sprays for pests and diseases. Some common pests include apple maggots, which turn into flies, and the use of sticky spheres with lures can help reduce the need for sprays. However, fallen apples should not be used due to a fungus that can produce a toxin, patuline, which can be harmful even when used in food products. Alternatively, visiting an apple orchard for a day or two each year can provide a similar enjoyment of apples without the daily chores and potential risks. Additionally, crab apples can be used for various purposes, but they should not be consumed if they have fallen on the ground.
Precautions when consuming apples: Apples are generally healthy, but beware of potential risks like consuming large amounts of apple seeds or eating contaminated fruit.
While apples are generally healthy and contain beneficial compounds like polyphenols and antioxidants, there are some precautions to take when consuming them. Apple seeds contain compounds similar to cyanide, but it would take consuming a large amount of crushed seeds to cause harm. The phrase "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" is not scientifically proven, but eating an apple a day may lead to fewer prescription medications due to its health benefits. Additionally, apples are a favorite food of deer, so it's important to ensure the fruit isn't contaminated with droppings before consuming. Overall, apples are a nutritious fruit with numerous health benefits, but it's important to be aware of potential risks and take necessary precautions.
Discovering Apple's Hidden Health Benefits: Apples, especially with their peels, lower cholesterol and offer cellular defense, immune system support, and potential aging benefits.
Apples, with their peels on, have comparable effects to statin drugs in lowering LDL cholesterol for people over 50. Apples contain phenolic acids and antioxidants, making them beneficial for cellular defense and immune system functions. Whole apple extracts have been found to slow aging, extend lifespan, and improve health span in C. Elegans nematodes. Apples should be stored in a crisper jar in the refrigerator to last longer, and they release ethylene gas that can affect other fruits and vegetables nearby. Despite some debates about fruits and vegetables, most vegetables are actually fruits. A pumpkin, contrary to popular belief, is a berry due to its fleshy seeds and single ovary. These findings highlight the importance of incorporating a variety of fruits, including apples, into a healthy diet for their numerous health benefits.
Exploring the apple industry beyond orchards: Working in the apple industry involves paperwork, reports, and challenges, but the joy of discovering new apple varieties and impacting the industry makes it worthwhile. Try simple apple recipes like apple crisp and sautéed apples with cinnamon and fresh whipped cream.
Working in the apple industry is not just about enjoying the beauty of the orchards or tasting different apple varieties. It involves dealing with the challenges of meetings, paperwork, and reports. However, the fascination of discovering new things and impacting the industry makes it worthwhile. Casey Clapp, an apple breeder, shared his dislike for Rome Beauty apples but encouraged trying different varieties. He recommended simple apple recipes like apple crisp and sautéed apples with cinnamon and fresh whipped cream. Despite the rumors about apples making you smarter, Clapp assured listeners that pomology and apples are related, but the idea of eating apples to increase intelligence is likely a myth. Overall, the apple industry is a blend of hard work, discovery, and delicious apples.
From Kazakhstan to our tables: The apple's journey: Apples are a testament to human-animal collaboration, nature's wonders, and the importance of supporting local farmers.
Apples, a common fruit we consume daily, have an intriguing history and development process. From their origins in Kazakhstan to the various breeds we have today, apples are a result of the collaboration between animals, humans, and time. Supporting local farmers and enjoying the fruits of their labor is essential, as they dedicate their lives to improving crop quality. Apples, while seemingly ordinary, are a testament to the wonders of nature and human ingenuity. Additionally, the importance of community and the impact of personal experiences on our appreciation for simple pleasures was emphasized. So, next time you eat an apple, remember the effort put into its cultivation and the connections it fosters.
Memories connected to sensory experiences: Savoring moments, like sharing a treat or creating a tradition, can transport us back in time and leave a lasting impression on our hearts.
Memories connected to sensory experiences, like the taste of a favorite gumball or the feeling of a summer breeze, can transport us back in time and evoke strong emotions. The speaker shared a personal memory of driving around with her sister, listening to music, and sharing green apple gumballs. This tradition, which started when the speaker was a teenager, has stayed with her and brings back fond memories every time she encounters those gumballs. The simple pleasure of sharing a treat and creating a tradition with a loved one can have a lasting impact and serve as a cherished memory. So, savor those moments, whether it's the taste of a green apple gumball or a shared experience with a loved one, as they can take us on a journey through time and leave a lasting impression on our hearts.
