The new edition of the manual South Tyrolean Apple Varieties: Colour & Quality, published by the VOG Association in Italy, will be available from next month.

The book, which is printed in German, Italian and English, contains colour illustrations for evaluating the quality and standard of South Tyrolean apples.

The updated version of the manual, first published in 1995, specifies the standards for grading the quality of the fruit based on its external properties. More than 200 photos help to define parameters relating to the shape, colour and skin characteristics of all of the varieties produced in South Tyrol and currently on the market, to facilitate the grading of Class I and Class II produce in accordance with EU standards.

Each apple variety is the focus of a double-page spread featuring 10 photos showing premium fruit on the left and inferior quality specimens on the right. The most common defects are covered, including damage due to disease, parasites and hail.

The guide also contains in-depth information on optimal harvest periods and storage conditions, enabling industry professionals to optimise the management of each step of the fruit’s life cycle, from planting and harvesting to warehouse storage.

Georg Kössler, chairman of the VOG Association, said: “All of our fruits are grown in accordance with Agrios guidelines on integrated pest management, which guarantee the quality of Mela Alto Adige IGP and Marlene-branded apples.

“These brands are the expression of a production philosophy which is concisely and comprehensively summarised in the pages of the book.”

Gerhard Dichgans, director of the VOG Association, said: “This book brings together the accumulated experience of the experts in our association, in determining the fundamental properties for evaluating the quality of the fruits. It is a useful tool both for technicians and for commercial operators.”

The 100-page guide will be available from September 1.

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