California is the fifth-largest producer of apples in the United States, and the California Apple Commission represents apple growers and handlers statewide. We met with Michelle Borges, Director of Technical Affairs and Operations for the California Apple Commission, to learn more about California’s apple industry and why consumers should choose CA GROWN apples.

What is the California Apple Commission?

The California Apple Commission helps to support the state’s apple industry – focusing on marketing, education, trade development, and international outreach. Governed by a board of elected representatives, the California Apple Commission represents the interests of California’s 20 apple producers and five apple handlers. Michelle elaborates, “The California Apple Commission is a state-mandated organization. We work closely with the California Department of Food and Agriculture as well as the United States Department of Agriculture. And we represent all of the growers and handlers of apples in California.”

Where do apples grow in California?

While apples are grown in cooler areas throughout the state, from the coastline to the Sierra Foothills, commercial production is centered in the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. The region’s signature Delta Breeze brings cooler nighttime temperatures that encourage higher sugar levels, vibrant skin color, and a crisp texture. 

Learn more about how apples are grown in the Golden State

What Does the California Apple Commission Do?

The California Apple Commission keeps growers and handlers up to speed on the latest research and regulatory requirements, develops new market opportunities and spearheads consumer education efforts. One of the commission’s priorities is ensuring consumers understand when California’s apples are in season and the benefits of choosing CA GROWN apples. 

Apples aren’t just a fall fruit! California’s apples are first to market – with the season kicking off at the end of July and running through the end of October.

Choose CA GROWN Apples

California apple growers pride themselves on offering the freshest and safest apples available. Michelle notes, “California picks, packs and ships their apples within such a short time frame that we are the freshest apples on the market.” California also holds the advantage of being first to market, harvesting fresh apples weeks before neighboring states. 

Michelle notes that California apples are also the safest on the market. “California has some of the strictest rules when it comes to food production,” she says. “As someone in the fresh produce industry, I know that the California-grown produce I’m consuming is clean and safe. Buying local and buying a California Grown product ensures the highest quality product.” 

There are four main varieties of apples grown in California – Fuji, Granny Smith, Cripps, and Gala. 

How Does the California Apple Commission Represent California Internationally?

While the majority of California apples are enjoyed here in the United States, the California Apple Commission also helps develop export opportunities in key international markets. Michelle states, “We do export some apples to our two largest export markets, which are Canada and Mexico.”

Michelle enjoys representing the Golden State on the international agricultural stage. Some of her responsibilities include attending trade shows where she meets with importers and retailers to further export relationships. She laughs and admits, “Sometimes, I almost think the general perception of agriculture is stronger internationally compared to our domestic market.” Sharing some common international perceptions of California, Michelle parrots, “California is the Golden State. We have the highest-quality fruits and vegetables. We’re known for healthy eating and having new innovations in their food supply and in the retail space.”

Smiling, Michelle adds, “It’s fun to see those things. And it definitely has given me more of an appreciation for being able to live in this state and to grow up here around the agriculture community.”

Women in Agriculture: Michelle Borges

Michelle didn’t grow up on a farm, but she fell in love with agriculture all the same.

She recalls, “Both of my parents started their careers as high school agriculture education teachers. We had gardens growing up, and we raised livestock for our country fair. We did all the public speaking contests. Our family joke is that between the three kids, we did every single activity possible with 4-H and FFA.” 

She credits her family, friends and teachers with helping her to stay encouraged and motivated while pursuing her dreams. “I had such a strong support system. When I think of my mentors, my family is the first that comes to mind. I think of my high school agriculture teachers, other mentors I’ve met through 4-H and FFA, and my advisors at Chico State and Oregon State. They always encouraged me, even at times when I didn’t believe in myself. So, I’m just very thankful, and I want to be that mentor for another young woman in agriculture one day.”

Michelle believes that women are an integral part of California’s agriculture industry. She’s incredibly excited to see what the future holds. She claims, “Women in agriculture are the leading charge of the industry. We’re pushing the needle forward and progressing and innovating the agriculture industry.” Grinning like a girl watching her dreams come true, she concludes, “I’m proud to be part of that.”

Support California Agriculture

Michelle and the California Apple Commission encourage everyone to shop for CA GROWN apples. However, Michelle also hopes they’ll take a moment to appreciate the people and stories behind their produce. She states, “Agriculture has a story to tell. I wish people knew that your food comes from so much more than just the grocery store. There’s a process, from an apple being harvested on the tree to your local grocery store. There’s so much hard work and effort that gets put into the industry.” 

As a woman building a career in agriculture, Michelle is proud to be part of this story and grateful for the community that has supported her every step of the way. She asserts, “The Central Valley thrives on agriculture because of its community. It makes it such a special place for someone like me as a young professional to pursue a career in agriculture.”

How to enjoy California Apples…beyond just taking a bite

Inspired by High-Pie, this Apple Pie Filling is a nostalgic treat that is sure to please!

Apples absolutely belong in all your favorite salads – and this Shaved Apple Fennel Salad is all the proof you need.

Did you know that apples are an amazing addition to savory recipes? With layers of buttery puff pastry, fragrant rosemary, and a touch of sweetness, our Savory Apple Tart Bites are the perfect way to enjoy CA GROWN apples.

What’s the recipe for the perfect salad? Simply top bitter radicchio, sweet tart apple and toasty walnuts with a marvelous maple mustard vinaigrette. This Radicchio Apple Walnut Salad from A Table Defloured is a definitely showstopper…not a side dish.

Loaded with fresh apples and spiked with cinnamon, our friend Rebecca‘s Apple Cinnamon Cake is the ultimate dessert.

Article by Hilary Rance. Photography by Hilary Rance and James Collier.