Fruits

Listeria outbreak linked to caramel apples

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is collaborating with public health officials in several states and with FDA to investigate an outbreak of listeria monocytogenes infections (listeriosis).According to a news release, joint investigation efforts... more »

New variety available to more retailers

Honeybear Brands, the varietal developer, has announced the regions and markets selected for the rollout of its newest apple variety, Pazazz.The new variety will be available to select retailer partners in several major markets. Honeybear... more »

Stoll crowned 2015 Michigan Apple Queen

Mary Stoll of Kent City has been crowned the 2015 Michigan Apple Queen. Madison Rasch of Conklin is First Runner-Up, according to the Michigan Apple Committee (MAC).Contestants for Michigan Apple Queen must have a connection... more »

Engelsma’s Apple Barn wins best cider in state for fifth year

Jim and Becky Engelsma and their daughter Bridget of Engelsma’s Apple Barn in Walker, Michigan, took home first place in the 18th annual Michigan Apple Cider Contest.The contest took place in Grand Rapids on Dec.... more »

Russian ban leaves apple exporters scrambling for new markets

Russia was on everybody’s mind at Interpoma.On Nov. 20, speakers at the international apple conference held in Bolzano, Italy, discussed the world’s shifting apple markets. Many topics were covered, but Russia’s decision last summer to... more »

Orchard rides hard cider wave

When Andrew Blake first approached his family with the idea of starting a hard cider operation at Blake Farms cider mill and orchard in Armada, Michigan, the response was less than enthusiastic. “We told him... more »

China lifts ban on U.S. Red, Golden Delicious

In October, China reopened its borders to Red and Golden Delicious apples from Washington state, lifting a ban that had been in place for more than two years, according to the Washington Apple Commission (WAC).... more »

Researchers study SWD pressure in cherries

Concern continues to mount about the potential impact of spotted wing drosophila (SWD) in tart cherries in Michigan. Larry Gut, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension entomologist, has conducted trials at MSU’s Trevor Nichols Research Center... more »