Sainsbury's is hoping to have unearthed the next superfruit after a scouting trip to Switzerland unearthed a new variety of red-fleshed apple.
The variety, which is yet to be named, has very high levels of antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Sainsbury's is hoping to become the first UK supermarket to sell the apple. "It certainly has good potential in the UK market," said Theresa Huxley, Sainsbury's apple and pear technologist. "Of the strains we tested in Switzerland there were a couple that were particularly crisp, juicy and had sweet refreshing characteristics reminiscent of premium variety Pink Lady. The flesh is not only visually stunning but is also consistent in colour."
The apple has been bred by Dutch company Next Fruit Generation. About 500 trees were planted this winter in the Netherlands and Switzerland, and the first, small volumes will come through in 2009/10.
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