History of Apple in Timeline
An apple is a widely cultivated, round, edible fruit from the apple tree, *Malus domestica*. Originating in Central Asia with ancestor *Malus sieversii*, apples have a long history in Eurasia and were brought to North America by European colonists. The fruit holds cultural significance across various traditions, including Norse, Greek, and Christian beliefs.
1922: First recording of commonly used phrasing
In 1922, the phrasing "an apple a day sends 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 breeding program starts
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 University of Minnesota introduced the 'SweeTango', a cross between the 'Honeycrisp' and the 'Zestar' apples.
2010: Apple genome sequenced
In 2010, the apple fruit's genome was sequenced to advance 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, based on the 'Golden Delicious' cultivar, was completed and made available.
2014: Proposal to conserve "M. domestica" 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 decides to conserve "M. domestica"
In April 2017, the Committee for Vascular Plants of the IAPT decided, with a narrow majority, that the newly popular name "M. domestica" should be conserved.
June 2017: "M. domestica" officially conserved
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 hybrid of the 'Honeycrisp' and the 'Enterprise' apples.
2017: Canadian Food Inspection Agency determines Arctic apples are safe
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 reaches 97 million tonnes
In 2023, the world production of apples reached 97 million tonnes, with China producing 51% of the total.
