Forgotten apple varieties in the Rems-Murr district: Allergy sufferers beware!

Forgotten apple varieties in the Rems-Murr district: Allergy sufferers beware!

When it comes to apples, there are not just the classic varieties that you find in the supermarket. More and more people are wondering which old and regional apple varieties there are that may be better tolerated by allergy sufferers. Esslinger Zeitung reports that Old apple varieties can deal with allergies better than modern new varieties, which have been optimized primarily for sweetness and resilience. While today's varieties are often homogeneous, these old variants offer a rich variety and good tolerance.

Particularly noteworthy are varieties such as Gewürzluiken, Boskop, Danziger Kantapfel and Rote Sternrenette, which can fight allergens thanks to their high polyphenol content. Polyphenols, which are found in the outer layer of these apples, help allergy sufferers have fewer problems eating them. Another plus point: Old apple varieties often come from random seedlings and therefore have a high level of genetic diversity.

The forgotten ones among the apples

But the old variety is in danger. According to estimates, around 2,000 to 5,000 apple varieties may have existed in German-speaking countries, half of which have now disappeared said the SWR. Only a handful of varieties like Golden Delicious and Gala are still available in supermarkets - all of them profit-oriented and not necessarily allergy-friendly. If you are looking for real culinary delights and a strong dose of enjoyment, you should turn to regional fruit growers who stock old varieties.

The combination of old apple varieties and the protection of orchards is becoming increasingly important. These traditional forms of cultivation provide habitats for bees and many other wild animals. At the same time, old apple varieties have significantly more pronounced roots, which makes them more resistant to the challenges of climate change.

Allergies and apple varieties

A hotly debated topic is apple allergies, especially the most common form, the Mal d 1 allergy. Here too, findings from the Medical University of Vienna show that old varieties such as Alkmene and Boskop can often cause fewer symptoms in allergy sufferers. A study has found that the mature content of Mal d 1 proteins is crucial; Riper fruits often contain higher amounts and are therefore potentially more problematic for allergy sufferers. In contrast, old apple varieties often perform better when it comes to allergy symptoms.

A real recommendation from current research is the Prinzregent Luitpold apple variety, which is considered particularly allergy-friendly. While commercial varieties such as Golden Delicious triggered increased allergic reactions in tests, old varieties showed significantly fewer symptoms.

There is still a lot to discover in the beautiful region of the Rems-Murr district. The upcoming oneSchorndorf Apple Day on November 8thwill offer culinary delights and an exciting children's program - a great opportunity to discover more old apple varieties and appreciate the importance of orchards for the future.

Whether a delicious snack or a valuable asset for preserving biodiversity - old apple varieties are much more than just a question of taste. They offer hope for allergy sufferers and are an important contribution to the diversity in our cultural landscape.