Snacks of the Season: Apples, Spice & ‘NatureSeal’ Nice

Red maple leaves, cool brisk breeze, geese flying south and cinnamon spice aroma filling the house…little reminders that we’re in the midst of Fall. But fresh crisp apples may be the best of all.

Thanks to a USDA-developed and patented coating called NatureSeal®, fresh-cut apples can be enjoyed on-the-go without any worry of browning.

Using a blend of vitamin salts and minerals, scientists from USDA’s Agricultural Research Service and Mantrose-Haeuser, Co., Inc, developed the coating to extend the shelf life of sliced fruits for up to 28 days in refrigeration, without detectable change in color, flavor or texture.

As a result, this technology led to a tremendous increase – millions of pounds worth – in apples used annually, benefiting American farmers and consumers alike. According to the Economic Research Service, apples held the top spot for total fruit available for consumption when adjusted for loss in 2019 with fresh apples at roughly 10 pounds per person, and canned, dried, and frozen apples at 3.3 pounds per person.

(Courtesy USDA)