Seasons/Availability
SugarBee® apples are available from September to December.
Current Facts
SugarBee® apples, Botanically classified as Malus domestica, are a variety of the apple cultivar Honeycrisp developed in 1993 by researchers at the University of Minnesota breeding program. The Sugar Bee’s name was derived from its parent variety and refers to its sweet taste.
Appearance/Flavor
The round, conical shaped SugarBee® apples have a bright yellow-green skin speckled with red blush when exposed to direct sunlight or frost. Their surface is smooth and glossy with shallow ridges and dark eyes scattered throughout each fruit’s surface separated by shallow ind
The flesh of SugarBee® apples is white and firm with a sweet-tart flavor. Its juice is translucent and slightly green in color. The sugar content of the apples is high, ranging between 13.7 and 16.2 Brix units on average, which gives them their sweet taste when ripe.
Nutritional Value
The SugarBee® apple is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron and manganese. It also contains antioxidants that may help protect against certain diseases . One serving (3 ounces or one small apple) provides about 75 calories and 16 grams of carbohydrate with 3 grams of dietary fiber.
Storage/Uses
SugarBee® apples can be stored for up to 6 weeks when refrigerated. They can be eaten fresh, used in salads, added to smoothies or cooked. They are also excellent for baking and pair well with other flavors like cinnamon, nuts and citrus fruits.
Health Benefits
SugarBee® apples have a number of potential health benefits including: improved digestion from the high fiber content; reduced risk of certain cancers due to antioxidant content; and better management of blood sugar levels due to low glycemic index value. Additionally, they may help reduce cholesterol levels and lower the risk for heart disease.
In Summary
The SugarBee® apple is an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, antioxidants, minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron, as well as phytonutrients. It pairs especially well with other flavors like cinnamon, nuts and citrus fruits. Furthermore, its health benefits include improved digestion, reduced risk of certain cancers, better management of blood sugar levels, and potential reduction of cholesterol levels to lower the risk for heart disease. All these qualities make SugarBee® apples an ideal choice when looking for a healthy snack.
