September News from Northeast Harvest

Local apples are now ripe for the pickin'. Visit Northeastharvest.com for the many farms and farm stands that offer fresh-picked or U-pick apples from their orchards.

MDAR Launches Commonwealth Quality Program

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (MDAR) is announcing "Commonwealth Quality," a joint initiative that will promote locally grown agriculture and help consumers identify products that are produced, harvested, and processed in Massachusetts using practices that are safe and sustainable.

The program is the result of broad collaboration between MDAR and representatives of produce, dairy, forestry, aquaculture, and lobster industries of the Commonwealth. Central to the initiative is a licensed "Seal of Commonwealth Quality" that will distinguish Massachusetts products that meet comprehensive program requirements as well as federal, state, and local regulatory regulations.

Beginning in January 2011 the seal will appear on certified Massachusetts produce, dairy, seafood, and lumber products at farm stands, farmers' markets, and retail locations across the state. As a result of the Commonwealth Quality Program, consumers will be able to easily identify and enjoy certified products, knowing they are grown, harvested, and processed in Massachusetts using practices that are safe and environmentally friendly.

Apple Facts

The first apple trees were planted by the pilgrims in the Massachusetts Bay colony.

Don't peel your apple! Two-thirds of the fiber and many of the antioxidants are found in the peel.

John Chapman aka Johnny Appleseed was born in Leominster, MA in 1774.

Apples

The many varieties of apples differ widely in appearance, flesh, characteristics, seasonal availability and suitability for different uses. For good eating as fresh fruit: McIntosh, Macoun, Red & Golden Delicious, Cortland.

Selection: Select firm, well-shaped apples with good color. Avoid blemishes and soft spots.

Storage: Small quantities should be refrigerator-stored in a plastic bag that has a few perforated holes. These holes allow air into the bag so the apples can breathe. Store large quantities in a cool dark airy place.

General Tips for Fruits & Vegetables

Refrigerate fruits and vegetables in perforated plastic bags to help maintain moisture yet provide air flow. You can use a knife to make several small holes in a food-grade plastic bag (about 20 holes per medium-size bag).

If fruits and vegetables are stored on the refrigerator shelves, be sure to store them above meats and poultry to avoid contamination.

Fresh produce should be washed before you use it, not when you bring it home to ensure the best quality and to avoid spoilage.

Apple Cider - A Taste of the Bay State
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A favorite product of the apple harvest is sweet cider. In Colonial America, apple cider was the standard drink. President John Adams, who lived to the ripe old age of ninety-one, prided himself on drinking a pitcher of cider every morning. Read More...