Mother's Day, although on different dates, is celebrated worldwide. The day is a wonderful opportunity to show gratitude and love towards all mothers. In Jordan and Egypt, where this special day is celebrated on 21 March, the gift choice for mum can involve the tradition of giving apples as a sign of respect, love and care. The apple is additionally a symbol of health, beauty and family care. The fruit plays a vital role in both Jordanian and Egyptian culture. For what other reasons is an apple the right gift choice for this occasion?
Apple - a symbol of respect, care and appreciation
In Jordan, the custom of giving apples on Mother's Day is often seen as a gesture of love and care, as the fruit symbolises health, life and abundance. It is a tribute to the hardship that mothers sacrifice for the well-being of their children and families. In Egypt, the apple is also a popular gift for mothers on the occasion of their holiday. It is a gesture expressing gratitude for the invaluable role of mothers and the love and care they give to their families. Apples are often given along with wishes for health, happiness and prosperity. Thus, the apple as a Mother's Day gift in Jordan and Egypt carries deep cultural and emotional significance. The presentation of a fruit gift is an excellent opportunity to emphasise the critical role of the mother in family and community life.
The diversity of European apples
In addition to their symbolic significance, apples are also an excellent snack. Apples are popular fruits that delight us with their juicy flesh and diverse flavours - depending on the species. It is worth mentioning that there are more than 70 different varieties of apple trees in Poland alone. When considering a potential fruit gift, a wide range of options are available among apples produced in the EU.
A saying goes, “Such an apple, such a peel”, implying that the fruit's peel reflects its inner qualities. It is worth looking into this saying and whether it has any scientific basis. The first element to consider is the vast range of apple varieties available on the market. Each variety of apple produced in the EU has unique characteristics, such as acidity, sweetness, firmness of pulp and aroma. Consequently, the apple peel is, in a sense, a reflection of these characteristics. The apple peel is also rich in nutrients and chemicals. These, in turn, affect the appearance of the peel, its flavour and its health properties. For example, the pigments responsible for red, yellow, green or white peel result from various chemical compounds. Genetics also play an essential role in shaping the peel of the apple. Apple varieties have been cultivated over decades to achieve satisfactory taste, colour, and appearance. The genes responsible for these traits, including skin appearance, are passed through selective cultivation. Thus, popular apple varieties have distinctive skins that consumers easily recognise.
Although the saying “such an apple, such a peel” may seem just a proverbial adage, many factors can influence the appearance and characteristics of an apple's skin. The diversity of varieties, chemical components and genetics play a crucial role in this process. However, it is worth remembering that an apple's taste and nutritional value are not limited to the peel. It is worth reaching for different varieties of European apples to enjoy their diversity and satisfy all our senses. Regardless of their peel, apples of EU origin are renowned for their exceptional quality, making them ideal as a snack, dessert ingredient, or accompaniment to various dishes. Let us appreciate the diverse range of European apples and explore their unique flavours, irrespective of their exterior appearance.