New Brazilian apple varieties provide a fresh alternative to traditional favorites

Three apple varieties developed in Brazil — Luiza, Venice, and Isadora — have gained international recognition after winning the "Best Apple of the Year" award at the 2025 Protagonisti della Ortofrutta Italiana, a competition organized by an Italian agricultural magazine. These apples, created by the Agricultural Research and Rural Extension Company of Santa Catarina (Epagri), are now being cultivated and distributed in Europe.

Unlike traditional apples, Luiza, Venice, and Isadora stand out for their exceptional flavor, visual appeal, and adaptability to different climates, according to Marcus Vinicius Kvitschal, lead researcher and genetic breeder at Epagri’s Experimental Station in Caçador, Santa Catarina. Developing these varieties required over 20 years of research, involving specialists in genetics, pathology, entomology, and crop management.

The breeding process is 100% natural and does not involve genetic modification. Researchers manually pollinate flowers, select the best hybrids, and test them for disease resistance, fruit quality, and climate adaptability. This approach significantly accelerates natural selection, enabling the development of new apple varieties in just two decades.

For over 25 years, Epagri has collaborated with international partners to test and expand the reach of its apple varieties. These apples underwent extensive trials in Europe, where their performance led to commercial interest and large-scale production.

Since 2020, efforts to expand cultivation have increased, with new orchards established across Europe and ambitious plans to further scale production globally. The goal is to ensure consistent availability year-round, providing consumers with a fresh, sweet, and crisp alternative to traditional apples.

Despite success abroad, these varieties face challenges in Brazil. The country’s apple market is dominated by Gala and Fuji, making it difficult to introduce new varieties. According to Kvitschal, market success requires a strategic investment in branding and distribution, as demonstrated in European markets.

Consumer response has been overwhelmingly positive, with taste tests confirming strong demand for these apples. However, logistical and structural challenges within the supply chain slow their adoption in domestic markets.

The global success of Luiza, Venice, and Isadora underscores the potential for Brazilian apple breeding innovations. With the right investment and commercial strategy, these varieties could become major players in international fruit markets, competing alongside established favorites like Gala and Fuji.

source: abrafrutas.org

photo: revistacultivar-es.com