“I have a produce surprise coming your way,” emailed Robert Schueller, marketing director for 
Melissa’s produce company. “Let’s just say you’ll be one of a few in the world to try it this season.”
Lucky me!
Two days later, Fed Ex dropped off a tiny box with three small seemingly traditional apples… that is until I cut one open. The inside flesh is red.
I then learned from Robert that these are organic hybrid eating apples, called “Hidden Rose” – a new variety of apple grown in Oregon. He wanted my feedback on them.
The apples are tart, crisp and sweet — and a little starchy. They’re only available in November. But don’t look for them in your markets, as they won’t be commercially available for 5 to 7 years.
Being a food writer does have some perks!
Interesting! I would luv to try one of these. Sure he doesn’t want additional “taste-testers” in CA? LOL.
Now, an apple to boost longevity
Scientists have found apples that contain a powerful chemical which can help us live longer..The miracle ingredient was discovered in a strain of a red flesh apple – plays a powerful role in boosting heart health and circulation and could even extend life span. The compound, an epicatechin polyphenol, is found in many red flesh apple varieties (Some more, some less depending on the variety).
Trials have revealed that epicatechin can help maintain a healthy circulation by relaxing arteries and increasing blood flow. The research was conducted independently by the Institute of Food Research in Norwich. It shows it can dramatically reduce arterial stiffness by 21 per cent, which in turn leads to lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.
In the study, volunteers who were given the ingredient mixed in with fruit juice also saw their vascular age – the apparent age of a person’s blood vessels rather than their real age – reduced by an average of 17 years. Nutrition expert Dr Carrie Ruxton said, “The research is tremendously exciting. The fact that it is easily incorporated into ordinary foods means that it has the potential to benefit many people.”
So there you have it…Another reason to try the Hidden Rose Apple!
I just bought one in the grocery store tonight. It’s an apple. It tastes good. I’m never paying $8 per lb for apples again.
steve goodman kbr trading 732-842-7040 cell 732-859-5550
i am interested in your Hidden Rose apples. Could u please call or contact me thankyou
Just saw these apples in the current issue of Cooking Light. They look and sound so uniquely delicious! Why do magazines always tease us with things that are not readily available to the public????
Hello Deanna – – The apple variety season is just starting out… the Hidden Rose Apples in the Cooking Light magazine are from Melissa’s Produce. Yes.. they are not available currently, however the season will start typically late October. I believe Cooking Light wanted to feature them first this season because of the Apple theme in the magazine…. also it gives the readers something to look forward to this season! The magazine by the way is the October edition.
So look forward to them…
Cooking Light’s Produce Guru Robert Schueller of Melissa’s Produce (www.melissas.com)
Thanks for the info — yes, it was the October issue of Cooking Light that I just received in the mail. Do you know if there any place on Long Island that may carry the apples when they come in season?
It is very likely you will find it at Wegmans, Food Emporium and maybe Kings Supermarkets. But check back late October to http://www.melissas.com or call to get on contact list for Hidden Rose Apples from our Mail order depart. 800-588-0151.
These are the most amazing apples in the world. Plus they do sell them here in Greater Cincinnati at a store called Jungle Jims. Like the author said though they are only available for a few weeks in November leading up to Thanksgiving. I worked the organic produce at Jungle Jims for about 6 months during school one year and remember getting them in. They would fly off our shelf!! Alot of ppl use them to make apple pies. You’ve never had anything like it, it’s a must try!!!!!!!!