‘Best quality and flavour’ British topfruit for years

The upcoming British apple and pear season could be the best for quality and flavour for many years.

That’s according to industry body British Apples & Pears (BAPL), which reports that a dry growing season has not hampered the developing fruit. The new season kicks off in September.

Young apples and pears are now growing and ripening slowly in orchards across the UK, and growers have been reviewing their crops and making their predictions for the season ahead.

They report that apple volumes are generally looking good, and while variations from orchard to orchard exist, expectations are that it will be up a little on 2024.

There is beautiful skin finish and sweeter flavours, according to growers, who add that much of the russet seen last year is not so prevalent this year. The warm, sunny weather over recent weeks is generating a delicious, sweet flavour profile, they add.

Fruit trees are also reportedly holding up well in dry conditions, however some orchards have experienced recent hail damage to the fruit, which is a concern at this late stage in the season. 

BAPL executive chair Ali Capper said: “For once the spring weather has been quite kind to growers. The fruit really is looking stunning and we’re very hopeful that 2025 will be a great British apple and pear year.

“However, there is still time for the weather to affect the size of the fruit. Substantial rainfall will likely increase the size, while dry conditions will likely mean smaller fruit. What we do know is that whatever the size, the skin finish and sweet flavour profile will be very appealing to consumers.”

BAPL said its members are working closely with retailers to create in-store theatre celebrating the best of British top fruit from October onwards. The organisation will also be investing heavily in social media advertising at the start of new season to showcase the ‘superfood’ health benefits of British apples and encourage shoppers to seek out British apples and pears in store.