Does an apple a day keep the doctor away?

It all began with Johnny Appleseed traveling the country in the 1800s planting apple seeds. Planting apple orchards was a sign that pioneers were establishing new settlements. During this time, land companies even required settlers to plant apple orchards to claim a parcel of land. Apples are as American as no other … well, maybe except for apple pie. The old adage originated from Devonshire, England, in the 1500s, “Ate an apfel avore gwain to bed. Makes the doctor beg his bread.” This translates into the modern version, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.”

Apples are probably the most favored fruit. Studies show that Americans consume 44 pounds of apples per person each year. Most of our apple supply comes predominately from the states of Washington, New York, Michigan and Pennsylvania; however, apples are grown in many states. August through October is the harvest season for apples; however, apples can be enjoyed year-round due to their sturdiness and storage capabilities. Hundreds of varieties of apples exist, each one offering a unique taste and purpose for eating, baking or cooking.