The apple is probably the world’s most popular fruit. Needing not much introduction, it is inevitably one of the most common fruits used in learning the English alphabet as the letter ‘A’ is always meant for ‘apple’ and rarely other objects.
And though many have taken the apple for granted, nonchalantly consuming and enjoying it in all sorts of culinary presentations and most commonly on its own, not many are aware of where most apples actually come from.
As apples can only grow in places with cooler climates, Southeast Asians do not have the privilege of witnessing apple orchards in their own countries.
One of our travellers from Travellah however, was given the honour to witness Europe’s largest fruit orchard situated in the town of Grojec in Poland. Yes Poland!
This trip was organised to give a chance to Southeast Asians to observe and savour the magic found in Polish Apples.
Apart from Malaysian representatives, we were also joined by friends from neighbouring Thailand, making the trip more exciting and colourful.
For the uninformed, Poland is actually one of the biggest apple producers in the world and in Europe!
In 2021, Poland exported more than 922,000 tonnes of apples worldwide.
The orchard area in the European Union exceeds half a million hectares with 33% located in Poland.
Grojec, the town where this humongous orchard is located has her own charm.
Grójec is a town in eastern Poland, located about 40 kilometres south of Warsaw. It is the capital of the urban-rural administrative district Grojec and Grojec County.
As of 2017 it had 16,674 inhabitants. Grójec surroundings are considered to be the biggest apple-growing area of Poland. It is said that the region makes up also for the biggest apple orchard of Europe. Statistically, every third apple sold in Poland is grown in Grójec, as a unique local microclimate provides for their beautiful red colour.
There are several types of apples grown in Poland and among the most popular are the Gala, Najdared, Red Chief, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious and Red Jonaprince variant.
During the visit, we were given a tour of the actual orchards and various factories where these apples were stored and later separated then packed for distribution.
These apples have been carefully selected as the standards set by the European Union are known to be very high.
The apples and other produce in Poland have to meet stringent requirements with meticulous research done on the soil, climate and the products themselves.
With such high standards, it is no wonder that the apples from Poland are so popular in Europe.
Polish apples can also be found in Malaysia now. For further information click the link below:
This study tour was initiated by the European Fruit Union and the Association of Polish Fruit and vegetables Distributors.
Travellah’s internet connection throughout this journey in Poland was powered by Roaming Man. For great uninterrupted internet connection while travelling, click here.
