History of Apple in Timeline

An apple is a widely cultivated, round, edible fruit from the apple tree (Malus domestica), originating in Central Asia. Grown for millennia in Eurasia, it was later introduced to North America. The apple also holds cultural importance in various mythologies and religions.

1922: Common phrasing of apple proverb recorded

In 1922, the phrasing now commonly used "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" was first recorded.

1991: 'Honeycrisp' released by the University of Minnesota

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

1994: Washington State University starts apple breeding program

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

2008: 'SweeTango' introduced by the University of Minnesota

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

2010: Apple genome sequenced

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

2010: First whole genome sequence completed

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

2014: Proposal to conserve M. domestica voted down

In 2014, the Committee for Vascular Plants of the IAPT voted down an earlier proposal to make 'M. domestica' a conserved name for the apple species.

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 decides 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: IAPT approves conserving 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, Washington State University released the 'Cosmic Crisp', a cross between the 'Honeycrisp' and the 'Enterprise'.

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 of Apples produced

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

2023: World apple production

In 2023, world production of apples reached 97 million tonnes, with China being the leading producer.

Mentioned in this timeline

China officially the People's Republic of China PRC is an...

Minnesota is a U S state in the Upper Midwest...

The University of Minnesota Twin Cities located in Minneapolis and...