Grapples: Description, Origins, Uses and More…

Apples that taste like grapes ? Yes, they do exist. In 2004, the world was introduced to Grapples, an attempt made at Wenatchee, to create apples that taste like grapes. This was not something new for Americans as they were already familiar with customized versions of established fruits. Products such as “Graisins” and “Lematoes” were already introduced and Grapple was another addition to the world of artificially customized fruits.

In this guide, we’ll explore the origins of Grapples, their taste, health benefits, how and where to buy, and more.

What are Grapples?

Grapples are a variety of apple created by infusing regular apples with a artificial grape flavor solution . The result is an apple that tastes like the sweet and tart combination of grapes and apples in one bite. Grapples have become increasingly popular for their unique flavor profile and health benefits, making them a great option for those looking to add some sweetness and nutrition to their day.

An important point to note is that Grapples are not a hybrid form of apples as they are not grown. Its basically infusing your regular apples with a grape concentrate.

In this guide, we’ll explore the origins of Grapples, their taste, health benefits, how to buy them, and more.

Description:

Grapples have variations in size and shape, depending on the specific variety. They are on average 5-8 centimeters in diameter. The shape is conical and oblate. The apple’s skin is thin to semi-thick, smooth, taut, and sometimes waxy, showcasing prominent lenticels.

When ripe, the skin turns to shades of yellow-orange and yellow-green, with dark red patches. When peeled, the ivory-to-white flesh is firm, dense, aqueous, and fine-grained with a tender and crisp bite. There is also a central fibrous core filled with tiny, dark brown-black seeds.

History and Origins:

Grapples were developed in the late 1990s by Washington Fruit & Produce Co at Wenatchee, Washington State. The company’s original goal was to create a product that could provide more value from apples and help reduce apple waste.

Fuji and gala apples were used in this process. The apples were first scanned for sweetness and importance was given to size and quality. Then they were bathed in the grape flavoring and moved to cold storage, where they further absorbed their grape flavor.

Grapples were released to commercial markets in 2011. They were heavily marketed as a children’s snack alternative to candy. In 2016, another version of Grapples were introduced however both the products were withdrawn and discontinued after a few years. The reason were poor sales, ineffective marketing and possibil of allergens in the fruit.

As of 2024, they are no longer in production.

Flavor Profile:

Grapples have a unique flavor profile that combines the tartness of grapes and the sweetness of apples. They have a strong grape aroma and known for bearing characteristics such as a sweet-tart, fruity, and slight acidic taste with notable grape nuances.

They also have a crunchy texture when bitten into, similar to other popular types of apples like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith.

The result is a refreshing and sweet combination that’s perfect for snacking, baking, or adding to salads.

Health Benefits of Grapples:

Grapples taste great and offer a range of health benefits. The health benefits of Grapples are the same as for other apples. The process of their production does not add any extra sugar, calories or anything that might raise an eyebrow. It maintains all of its natural supply nutrients. They are a great source of vitamin C to strengthen the immune system. There is plenty of fiber which does wonders for the digestive tract.

The grape flavor (methyl anthranilate) infused in these apples were FDA and USDA-approved. This fact was highlighted to establish it as a healthy choice for all age groups.

It has antioxidants that protect the cells against free radical damage, magnesium to control nerve functions, and other nutrients, including folate, copper, zinc, vitamin K, and boron.

Where to Buy?

Grapples are generally available from late summer to early winter with peak season usually occurring between August and November. However, some varieties are available year-round due to the use of cold storage technology. Additionally, they are becoming more widely available in grocery stores across North America.

They are available at supermarkets such as Walmart and Whole Foods, along with several online stores like Instacart, Amazon Fresh and Peapod.

Converting an Apple to Grapple:

• To create Grapples, high quality apples (mostly Fiji and Gala) are chosen and infused with artificial grape flavor (methyl anthranilate).
• Post that, they are kept in cold storage for the next few days, letting the flavor to be soaked.
• Once ready, they are distributed in custom packaging to grocers throughout the United States.
• This whole conversion process makes them much more expensive than other variety of apples.

Where do They Grow?

Grapples originated from the United States but have since spread to other countries such as Canada, Mexico, and parts of South America. They are customized from Fiji or Gala apples that thrive in temperate climates. They need plenty of sunshine and are most commonly found in the western United States.

The Grapples originated in Wenatchee and Washington state alone produces 70% of apples in the United States. States like New York and Michigan are also significant producers of Grapples.

Things to Remember When Buying:

While purchasing Grapple, it’s important to look for fruit that is uncracked and free of blemishes and soft spots. The skin should be firm and glossy, with no signs of wrinkling. Make sure to give the fruit a gentle squeeze – it should feel slightly firm but not hard.

By following these tips, you’ll be sure to get your hands on the highest quality apples!

How to Store?

To ensure that your Grapple stay fresh, it’s important to store them properly. Place the apples in a plastic bag and store them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Make sure to check on the fruit periodically to make sure there is no spoilage or mold growth.

Various Culinary Uses:

Grapple are best when eaten raw and fresh however, they also pair well with a variety of other fruits and vegetables. They are great in salads, pies and crumbles. Always good choice for to be used as topping for ice cream or yogurt.

These apples are used to make applesauce, apple butter and apple jelly. They go well with carrots, celery, broccoli, cabbage, and kale in stir-fry dishes. Grapples are used to make cider, brandy and wine.

Whether you’re looking to create a sweet or savory dish these apples are sure to be an excellent addition!

Conclusion:

Grapples are an inventive and exciting fruit that brings together two of the most loved fruits in the world. They have a unique flavor profile that is both sweet, tart and offer numerous health benefits.

As of 2024, the production of Grapple apples have been discontinued by its parent organization due to reasons such as low sales and poor marketing strategies.

Grapples belong to the the unique list of modern customizations of popular fruits. It serves the purpose of bringing a grapey twist to the already loved world of apples.

Do you think Grapple will make a comeback?

FAQ’s

Q.1 Do Grapples grow naturally?

Ans.- Grapples are not naturally grown. They are created by infusing regular apples with a artificial grape flavor solution.

Q.2 Where to buy Grapple?

Ans.- They are available at supermarkets such as Walmart and Whole Foods, along with several online stores like Instacart, Amazon Fresh and Peapod.

Q.3 Are Grapples safe?

Ans.-  The grape flavor (methyl anthranilate) is FDA and USDA-approved and used in many other food and beverages, making it a completely safe fruit.

Q.4 Are Grapples available today?

Ans. Grapples are not in production currently and have been discontinued by its parent organization.