History of Apple in Timeline

An apple is a widely cultivated, edible fruit originating in Central Asia. Grown for millennia in Eurasia, it was introduced to North America by European colonists. Its wild ancestor is Malus sieversii. Apples hold cultural significance in various mythologies and religions.

1922: First recording of "an apple a day" phrasing

In 1922, the phrasing "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" was first recorded, evolving from earlier versions of the proverb traced back to 19th-century Wales.

1991: 'Honeycrisp' released by the University of Minnesota

In 1991, the 'Honeycrisp' apple was released by the University of Minnesota and became famous for its crispness and juiciness.

1994: Washington State University starts apple breeding program

In 1994, Washington State University started an apple breeding program to support their home state's apple industry.

2008: 'SweeTango' introduced by the University of Minnesota

In 2008, the 'SweeTango', a cross between the 'Honeycrisp' and the 'Zestar' apples, was introduced by the University of Minnesota.

2010: Apple genome sequenced

In 2010, the apple fruit's genome was sequenced as part of research on disease control and selective breeding in apple production.

2010: First whole genome sequence completed

In 2010, the first whole genome sequence of an apple was completed and made available, based on the diploid cultivar 'Golden Delicious'.

2014: Proposal to make M. domestica a conserved name voted down

In 2014, the earlier proposal to make M. domestica a conserved name was voted down by the Committee for Vascular Plants of the IAPT.

2015: FDA determines Arctic apples are safe

In 2015, the US Food and Drug Administration determined that Arctic apples are as safe and nutritious as conventional apples.

April 2017: Committee decided to conserve M. domestica

In April 2017, the Committee decided, with a narrow majority, that the newly popular name, M. domestica, should be conserved.

June 2017: General Committee approves conservation of M. domestica

In June 2017, the General Committee of the IAPT decided to approve the change, officially conserving M. domestica.

2017: 'Cosmic Crisp' released by Washington State University

In 2017, the 'Cosmic Crisp', a hybrid of the 'Honeycrisp' and 'Enterprise' apples, was released by Washington State University.

2017: Canadian Food Inspection Agency approves Arctic apples

In 2017, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency determined that Arctic apples are as safe and nutritious as conventional apples.

2019: Arctic apples introduced to the United States market

In 2019, Arctic apples, a non-browning group of apples, were introduced to the United States market.

2023: Millions of tonnes produced

In 2023, millions of tonnes of apples were produced globally.

2023: World apple production reaches 97 million tonnes

In 2023, world production of apples reached 97 million tonnes, with China producing 51% of the total.

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