What Makes an Apple Red Inside?
The vibrant red or pink coloration found in the flesh of these apples is a result of high levels of anthocyanins, the same natural pigments that color berries and red cabbage. This trait is naturally present in certain wild crabapples, but historically these ancestors were too bitter for eating. Through decades of selective cross-breeding, horticulturists have been able to develop commercially viable dessert apples that retain this eye-catching characteristic while improving flavor and texture. These modern red-fleshed varieties are not genetically modified, but rather a product of traditional plant breeding methods.
The Rise of Modern Red-Fleshed Apple Varieties
While red-fleshed apples have existed for centuries, it is only in recent decades that breeders have successfully created varieties that combine novel coloration with exceptional eating quality. Here are some of the most prominent new apples with red flesh on the market today:
- Kissabel®: A brand of apples developed in France from over 20 years of research. Kissabel apples come in several varieties, including a red-skinned one with a red interior and a yellow-skinned type with light pink flesh. Known for a refreshing, tangy taste with hints of berries, Kissabels are not only good for fresh eating but also for baking and juicing, as the color holds well when cooked.
- Redlove®: Created by Swiss breeder Markus Kobelt in 2010, the Redlove series includes varieties like 'Era', 'Odysso', and 'Calypso'. These apples are red inside and out, with a crisp texture and a pleasant sweet-tart flavor reminiscent of berries. Redlove apples are praised for their high antioxidant content and resistance to apple scab. The flesh also resists browning when cut, making it ideal for salads and cheese boards.
- Lucy™ Series: Bred by Chelan Fresh in Washington, the Lucy™ brand includes two distinct varieties: Lucy™Glo and Lucy™Rose. Lucy™Glo has a golden-yellow skin with a vibrant pink-red interior, offering a sweet-tart flavor profile with a honeycrisp lineage. Lucy™Rose features a speckled red skin and a slightly sweeter, berry-flavored flesh. Both are known for their crisp texture and striking appearance.
Comparison of Red-Fleshed Apples
| Feature | Kissabel® | Redlove® | Lucy™ | Old Heirloom Varieties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Origin | France (IFORED) | Switzerland (Lubera) | Washington, USA (Chelan Fresh) | Central Asia |
| Interior Color | Pink to vibrant red | Deep red, marbled with white | Pinkish-red to deep red | Red but often bitter |
| Flavor Profile | Tangy with berry notes | Sweet-tart with hints of berries and cherry | Honeycrisp-like with sweet-tart or berry notes | Often very tart, astringent, or bitter |
| Skin Color | Yellow, pink-orange, or red | Glossy dark red | Golden-yellow (Glo) or speckled red (Rose) | Varies (e.g., green-skinned 'Surprise') |
| Oxidation | Does not easily brown | Resistant to browning | Resists browning | Varies |
| Antioxidants | Rich in antioxidants | Higher than average apples | High anthocyanin content | Present, but often coupled with undesirable flavor |
| Best For | Eating, baking, juicing | Eating, baking, juicing, sauces | Eating, baking, salads, charcuterie boards | Baking, cider, sauces |
The Health Benefits of Anthocyanins
The appeal of these red-fleshed apples extends beyond their visual novelty. The high concentration of anthocyanins that gives them their color also provides potential health benefits. These powerful compounds are a type of antioxidant that helps combat oxidative stress in the body. Studies suggest that a diet rich in antioxidants, including those found in red-fleshed apples, may offer protective effects against certain health issues, such as heart disease and cancer. While more research is always ongoing, incorporating these colorful fruits into your diet can be a delicious way to boost your antioxidant intake.
How to Enjoy Red-Fleshed Apples
These unique apples can be used in the same ways as traditional varieties, but their vibrant color adds an exciting new dimension. Here are some culinary ideas:
- Fresh Snacking: A simple, beautiful way to enjoy them. Slice them up for a refreshing snack or add them to a cheese board to delight your guests.
- Vibrant Salads: The red flesh makes for a stunning addition to fruit or green salads, especially since varieties like Redlove and Lucy resist browning.
- Colorful Baked Goods: Imagine a rosy-pink apple pie, tart, or crumble. The red flesh of these apples holds its color when cooked, unlike many other varieties.
- Pink Juice and Cider: Pressing these apples produces a beautifully tinted juice or cider, perfect for a special treat or a signature drink.
Conclusion
The new apples that are red inside are a fantastic example of modern horticulture creating fresh, exciting experiences for consumers. With the Kissabel, Redlove, and Lucy series leading the charge, these varieties combine visual drama with delicious flavor and enhanced nutritional benefits. From sweet-tart snacks to stunning baked goods, these red-fleshed apples are poised to add a welcome splash of color to kitchen tables everywhere. Look for them in specialty grocers and farmers' markets during their limited seasonal availability to experience this unique fruit for yourself.
