Interesting Facts About Apples

Apples botanically known as Malus sylvestris are a common fruit that many of us enjoy eating, whether as a snack or part of a recipe. However, there is much more to this fruit than meets the eye. Here are interesting facts about apples that you might not have known:

Apples Are Part Of The Rose Family

Yes, you read that right. Apples belong to the Rosaceae family, which includes other fruits such as cherries, peaches, and strawberries, as well as flowers such as roses and peonies. This means that apples are related to some of our favorite blooms and fruits.

There Are Over 7,500 Different Types Of Apples Grown Around The World

While you may be familiar with a few common varieties such as Red Delicious, Granny Smith, and Honeycrisp, there are thousands of different types of apples grown globally. These variations come in different colors, sizes, and flavors, and are grown for both commercial and personal use. Some lesser-known types include Ashmead’s Kernel, which has a nutty flavor, and the pink-fleshed Pink Pearl.

Apples Float In Water

The next time you’re at a pool or lake, try dropping an apple into the water. You’ll likely see it float to the surface, which is due to its density. Apples are less dense than water, which means they are buoyant and float on the surface. This is why apples have been used as a way to test the density of liquids in science experiments.

Apples Can Improve Your Oral Health

You’ve probably heard the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” But did you know that it can also keep the dentist away? Apples contain a high amount of fiber, which can help stimulate saliva production and rinse away harmful bacteria in your mouth. The fruit’s natural sugars can also help neutralize acids in your mouth, reducing the risk of tooth decay.

Apples Were The First Fruit To Be Commercially Grown In North America

Before apples were brought to North America by European settlers, the only native fruit was the cranberry. However, in the 1600s, colonists began planting apple seeds and orchards, making apples the first fruit to be commercially grown on the continent. Today, the United States is one of the largest producers of apples in the world, with the state of Washington leading the way.

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