The New York Apple Association kicks off fall apple harvest
The New York Apple Association kicks off fall apple harvest
The New York Apple Association has kicked off the fall apple harvest during its Big Flavor in the Big Apple at The Big Four event.
“The New York Fashion Week is collectively known as the Big Four, and we thought it would be the perfect place to sample New York state apples this season,” said Cynthia Haskins, president and CEO of the NYAA. “The flavor of New York apples is phenomenal this year and combining their beautiful colors and flavors made it an easy choice to showcase on the catwalk.”
Fashion Week, held each September, is when international collections are presented to buyers, the press and the public.
During New York Fashion Week in Manhattan, NYAA not only put New York apples on the runway, but also offered samples to attendees.
At this year’s event, Lauren Norris, recently named Miss New York, stopped by the sampling station and enjoyed some New York apples along with her new crown.
This year, NYAA also announced its Big on Nutrition, Big on Flavor campaign, which will include a new health and nutrition blog. The blog will feature monthly recipes, healthy tips by registered dietitian Kelly Springer — NYAA’s nutrition spokesperson — and apple variety profiles.
“Apples are a perfect meal companion, snacking option and for pairing,” Haskins said. “More than just tasty, apples deliver lasting benefits. They’re a natural source of quick energy, thanks to natural sugars and are rich in soluble and insoluble fiber to support healthy digestion. New York apples are a smart choice for families looking to keep kids happy, healthy and energized all day long.”
NYAA has more than 300,000 annual visitors to the ApplesfromNY.com website and expects even greater engagement this year.
A new section of the website will also allow visitors to sign up for a monthly newsletter featuring recipes, pairing ideas and more. Already, more than 28,000 people have subscribed to receive apple-related updates and recipes.
NYAA continues to drive its Big Flavor campaign in retail stores and across the trade. Retailers are displaying totes, pouches, poly bags and bulk apple displays. Prominent Big Flavor display shippers have also been distributed to many retailers.
Demand for New York State apples has been strong this fall, with production estimated at 30.5 million bushels.
“The flavor of the New York state apples this season is phenomenal,” Haskins said. “Consumers will want to buy two of everything as family and friends savor the flavor in every bite.”
NYAA encourages retailers to build large fall displays of New York apples and cider — two seasonal staples. Cross-merchandising with nut butters, cheeses, unique chutneys such as apricot or fig and artisan crackers can create a memorable pairing experience.
On social media, NYAA is highlighting how great New York apples taste on their own, while also inspiring quick and easy snack ideas.
NYAA is again partnering with the FarmOn! Foundation, working with school districts across the state to promote New York apples in October through the Big Apple Crunch. This celebration of local farmers, healthy eating and school spirit offers schools the chance to compete for a $1,000 FarmOn! Victory Garden Scholarship. Retailers will also join in the fun, biting into a New York apple in unison on Oct. 25 at 2:00 p.m.
To deepen its connection with schools, NYAA will also participate in the New York School Nutrition Conference on Oct. 25. The event brings together more than 300 school food professionals from across the state. There, NYAA will showcase the versatility and flavor of New York apples, offer samples and share sourcing information to help bring this nutritious fruit to more students’ trays.
