Apples gained a unique importance when an apple was responsible for Newton's theory of Gravity. It was an apple falling from a tree that led Newton to propose the principles of gravity. People of the modern times have reflected on the health benefits of apples and considered apples to keep the doctor away. Apple is popular with kids for the obvious reason that they identify the first letter of the alphabet with an apple! The association of apples to a wide range of subjects makes evident their popularity.

Apples are grown in different parts of the world. Apple producers have come up with numerous varieties of apples, thus providing an impetus to the popularity of this fruit all around the world. An apple is a perennial fruit and one of the most widely cultivated tree fruits. There are over 7,500 known cultivars of apples. The National Fruit Collection in England, proudly hosts the largest collection of apple cultivars in the world. Recently the cultivars like Fuji and Gala have become popular owing to their mild flavor and a less firm texture. The Fuji apple is an apple cultivar, which was developed at the Tohoku Research Station in Fujisaki, Aomori, Japan. The name is derived from Fujisaki and Mt. Fuji and this variety is a cross between the Red Delicious apples and the Ralls Genet of old Virginia. It was developed in the 1930's and brought to the market in 1962. In the United States they came in the 1980’s and soon became famous.

Fuji apples are large and round in shape and approximately of the size of a baseball. It appears as a blend of the red with green and yellow stripes. On account of a relatively higher sugar content and a dense cream-colored flesh, they are juicier, sweeter to taste and crispier in texture. They have a comparatively greater shelf life without refrigeration and can stay in refrigeration for as long as 5-6 months. These characteristics of Fuji apples have resulted in their widespread consumption. Moreover they can be best used in salads and are good for sauces. A Fuji applesauce needs a very less amount of sugar. They are the best-selling variety of apples in many parts of the world and their popularity is unparalleled.

Fuji apples make an excellent snack. They can be baked or cooked. Their long shelf life has led them to become a profitable item of sale for the retailers world over. They are great options for carrying to school, office or at picnics. Fuji apples, delicious as they are, have recently become a popularity in Washington. Today, Washington is proud to reap a large percentage of the Fuji apple crop. These newcomers to the market, the Fuji apples, have settled well and are favorites of a majority population around the world. If you have not tried tasting this variety, I recommend you to help yourself and get hold of a Fuji apple. I am sure; having one will make you crave for more!

By Manali Oak : Buzzle.com