Huozhou Apples

Huozhou Apples

Huozhou Apples are a product with a geographical indication.

　　 The apple-growing region lies to the east of Huo Mountain, stretching narrowly from north to south and nestled within the embrace of Huo Mountain. It boasts unique geographical advantages, located at 37 degrees north latitude, with high elevation (900–1100m), over 3000 hours of annual sunshine, moderate annual precipitation of around 500cm, and a significant day-night temperature difference of 7–10°C. The climate is cool, and water resources are abundant. The irrigation water comes from Mount Taiyue and is rich in mineral elements beneficial to human health. The fruit-growing area is far from pollution sources, making it an optimal region for producing Fuji apples. The total planting area across the region exceeds 50,000 mu, primarily featuring late-maturing Fuji apples. The fruits are brightly colored and strikingly attractive, with fine and juicy flesh that is pleasantly crisp. The soluble solids content of the fruit ranges between 17–18%, sugar content is above 14%, acidity is below 0.2%, and firmness is 7–8kg/cm². There are also some early-maturing varieties such as Honeycrisp, Gala, Matsumoto Wase, Red General, and Fuji King. The annual yield of commercial apples exceeds 100,000 tons.

　　Geographical Scope

　　The Kangyida Apple Professional Cooperative of Huozhou City is located at the foot of Huo Mountain within Huozhou City. Its geographical coordinates are between 110°12′–113°27′ east longitude and 35°01′–36°23′ north latitude, covering a total area of 768 square kilometers. The apple production area spans 3,603 hectares, with an annual output of over 120,000 tons. The main distribution is across more than 100 administrative villages in the hilly and mountainous areas along National Highway 108 and the Dayun Line, including Sanjiao Township, Taotangyu Township, and Licao Town.

　　Product Quality Characteristics

　　1. External Sensory Features: Huozhou apples are large and uniform in size, with an average single fruit weight of 350–400 grams. They have a regular shape, good coloration, moderate firmness, creamy yellow flesh, and are finely crisp, juicy, sweet, and flavorful with a pure taste. 2. Internal Quality Indicators: The apples mature around the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day, making them an excellent gift choice for family and friends, suitable for all ages. Regular consumption can invigorate the spleen, soothe the stomach, beautify the skin, and promote longevity. Nutritional components are defined as follows: fruit shape index of 1.05, total dietary fiber ≥1.0g/100g, soluble solids ≥14.0g/100g, moisture ≥75g/100g, vitamin C ≥1.2mg/100g, and potassium ≥80mg/100g. 3. Safety Requirements: Standards apply to the atmosphere, irrigation water, surface water, and the product itself.