Hundreds of little-known and forgotten varieties of British apples have a secure future, according to Tesco.
The retailer said this week it would sponsor Brogdale Horticultural Trust in Kent, dedicated to the conservation of fruit varieties in the UK.
The partnership also means the multiple can establish plans to bring some of the older, heirloom varieties grown at Brogdale to shoppers.
Tesco apple buyer Martin de la Fuente said: “Tesco will be looking for hidden apple treasures to bring to supermarket shelves.
“The appeal of the ‘antique’ apple lies its unique taste. We’ve already started selling some more traditional apples in our Finest range (see below), which is flying off the shelves.”
Not all of the 2,000 types of apple preserved at Brogdale could be grown commercially, because they are unlikely to find favour with modern consumers.
But among those set to be sold in Tesco are Blenheim Orange, which has a creamy white texture; Saint Edmund Pippin, which boasts a slightly acid, refreshing flesh; and James Grieve, a Scottish apple described as soft but very juicy.
“Increasing the English apple market will reduce the need for imports and will mean additional income for English growers worth hundreds of thousands of pounds,” added de la Fuente.
Jane Garrett, who runs Brogdale, said: “We welcome Tesco’s help because many of the more unusual varieties are never going to be eating favourites. They are, however, key to keeping the fruit history of Britain alive.”