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Arctic^® apples was founded by longtime apple and cherry growers Neal and Louisa Carter in 1996. While working on agricultural projects around the globe, Neal became passionate about the need to improve food systems and reduce food waste. When he later learned that apple consumption in the U.S. was declining, he saw a practical opportunity to help by creating the world’s most delicious and nutritious snack apple. After more than a decade of research and breeding in the couple’s Okanagan Valley orchards, the Arctic apple was born.

Most apples begin browning within minutes of the apple being bitten, sliced or bruised. This is because the damage causes an enzyme called polyphenol oxidase (PPO) to react with the fruit’s phenolic content. This results in a brown-toned melanin that stains the fruit and consumes the fruit’s Vitamin C and antioxidant content. Arctic apples do not release this enzyme, allowing the apples to maintain their natural flavor, appearance and nutrition.

There are numerous benefits Arctic apples can offer to consumers and the rest of the supply chain:
1) Superior Flavor: Arctic apple slices are known for their home-sliced taste.
2) Less food waste: Arctic apples fresh slices retain their orchard-freshness flavor for 28 days. The industry average is 18-21 days. No more throwing away half-eaten apples or treating fresh cut apples with flavor altering preservatives.
3) Supply Chain: Because Arctic apples stay fresher longer, less fruit is wasted during harvest, packing, processing, and shipping, so more high-quality apples reach consumers.
4) Retailers: Arctic apple slices are the perfect option for consumers, who increasingly seek healthy, ready-to-eat snacks. Our contact-free, grab ‘n go packaging makes it easier than ever to eat on the run, without sacrificing nutrition or taste. The longer shelf life of Arctic apples reduces retailers’ shrink.
5) Foodservice: Arctic apples offer “Less Prep, Less Waste, Better Taste.” Arctic apples are pre-sliced to reduce labor. That leaves operators time to focus on new menu opportunities where apples are not generally used, such as in salads, charcuterie boards, or whatever else can be imagined!

All Arctic apples are grown in Washington state.

Okanagan Specialty Fruits (OSF) is the company behind Arctic apples. OSF manages all aspects of Arctic apples. From the orchards to the customer.

Arctic apples do not brown due to their resistance to enzymatic browning. Enzymatic browning happens due to bruising, or exposure to air. Just like any other apple, Arctic apples will brown when they begin to decay. Arctic apples’ nonbrowning feature does not mask rot.