Analysis: 97% of the eating apples purchased in Ireland are imports, yet the country's climate is well suited for apple cultivation
By Alberto Ramos Luz and Dermot Callaghan, Teagasc
Consuming locally grown fruits and vegetables offers benefits for our health and the environment. These crops have a low environmental impact and can even play a role in mitigating climate change. In Ireland, recently, apple production has been chosen as a key sector, which is ripe for development.
This is based principally on market demand for Irish apples where there are positive consumer perceptions of Irish apples, but there are currently very large volumes of imported eating apples. Additionally, apple cultivation has the potential to offset carbon dioxide emissions, making it an attractive choice in efforts to combat climate change.
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From RTÉ Radio 1's Countrywide, Hannah Quinn Mulligan reports on what's been done to save the Irish apple
'An apple a day'
Fruit consumption is crucial for human health. They are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fibre that support overall well-being. Fruits provide a wide array of antioxidants that help protect against chronic diseases, boost the immune system, and promote healthy aging.
The higher consumption of fruit and vegetables is associated with a lower risk of all causes mortality, particularly cardiovascular mortality. Additionally, their natural sugars are accompanied by fibre, which aids in regulating blood sugar levels. Including a variety of fruits in our diet promotes optimal nutrition and contributes to a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Apples are the second most consumed fruit globally and play a significant role in providing dietary components associated with the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Their widespread geographical distribution and availability throughout the seasons make them accessible to a wide range of populations.
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From RTÉ Archives, On the Land report from Frank McKeever's apple orchard and cannery in Co Armagh in 1962
The consumption of apples contributes to a balanced diet and provides nutrients, such as dietary fibre, antioxidants, and phytochemicals, which have been linked to reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Including apples in our diet can be a simple yet impactful way to support heart health and overall well-being. While apples offer many health benefits, they should be enjoyed as part of a varied and balanced diet, alongside other fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats.
The eco-friendly apple
Increasing apple production in Ireland can benefit the environment by reducing apple imports and potentially through carbon sequestration in orchards. Consuming local produce contributes to sustainability and the reduction of our environmental footprint. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions from transportation, reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping.
Other important benefits related to local consumption are protection of biodiversity, water conservation and reduced packaging waste. It also enhances community resilience in the face of potential disruptions to global supply chains or external economic factors.
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From RTÉ Archives, Michael Ryan reports for RTÉ News in 1980 on how two new types of apples have been developed in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford
Orchard trees convert carbon dioxide into carbon through photosynthesis, which contributes to plant biomass. This capacity for carbon capture is significant, with orchards net sequestration of 1.3 tons C per hectare per year, even being compared to some deciduous forest species in similar climatic conditions.
Potential of Irish apples
In Ireland, there is a significant demand for Irish apples, but domestic production falls short of meeting consumer needs. The dessert apple (eating apple) sector in Ireland is benefiting from the increasing global demand for apples and apple-derived products. Currently, the domestic retail market for dessert apples is valued at €135 million, yet a staggering 97% of this demand is fulfilled through imports.
However, Ireland's climate is well suited for apple cultivation, and advances in varieties and orchard technologies and associated production systems hold the potential to grow this sector. Irish apples are well-regarded by consumers, who have shown a positive inclination towards healthy eating and plant-based nutrition.
Ireland's climate is well suited for apple cultivation
While fresh apple production is the focus of the apple research programme commencing in Teagasc, expanding into value-added opportunities such as juices, ciders, sauces and waste utilisation can contribute to the sector's development and these facets will ultimately be part of future research.
The choice of apple as the main focus of this fruit research programme is driven by its significant economic importance and the potential it holds for import substitution. As a result, apple production is being prioritised for development and improvement.
Looking ahead, there are plans to expand the cultivation of other fruit such as plums, pears, cherry trees, blueberries, and explore other plant species with economic potential and low environmental impact. By diversifying the range of cultivated fruits and plant species, Ireland aims to enhance its agricultural sector, promote sustainable practices and tap into new economic opportunities while mitigating environmental concerns.
Dr Alberto Ramos Luz is Fruit Research Officer at the Horticulture Development Department at Teagasc. Dermot Callaghan is Head of Horticulture Development Department at Teagasc
The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent or reflect the views of RTÉ
