Apples – Cosmic Crisp
Product Overview
Cosmic Crisp® apples are a premium, next-generation apple variety recognized for their deep red color, exceptional crunch, and long-lasting freshness. Carefully cultivated under strict quality controls, this variety delivers a consistent eating experience and outstanding shelf life, making it a preferred choice for wholesale buyers, exporters, and premium markets.
Key Characteristics
Cosmic Crisp® apples combine the best qualities of their parent varieties, Enterprise and Honeycrisp. They offer a firm, juicy bite with a well-balanced sweet and mildly tart flavor profile. The flesh is slow to oxidize after cutting, enhancing visual appeal and usability across food service and retail environments.
Seasonality and Origin
Peak Season: October to April
Country of Origin: United States (Washington State)
Preferred Temperature: 0°C to 1°C
Common Applications
• Premium fresh consumption
• Fruit platters and fresh-cut fruit salads
• Baking applications such as pies, tarts, and crumbles
• Cooking for sauces, compotes, and fillings
• Juice and cider production
• Gourmet desserts and high-end culinary use
Storage and Handling
Cosmic Crisp® apples are designed for extended storage without compromising quality.
• Recommended storage temperature: 0°C to 1°C
• Relative humidity: 90–95%
• Suitable for long-term controlled atmosphere (CA) storage, up to 12 months
• Requires consistent airflow to retain firmness and freshness
• Should be stored separately from strong-odor produce
Origin and Background
Developed by Washington State University’s apple breeding program, Cosmic Crisp® apples were released commercially in 2014 after more than two decades of research. The variety was specifically bred to meet modern supply chain requirements, offering durability, superior texture, and extended storage life. First reaching commercial markets in 2019, Cosmic Crisp® quickly gained international recognition and is now considered a benchmark for premium apple quality in global produce markets.
Grades and Quality Standards
Extra Fancy Grade
• Uniform size and shape
• Intense red coloration with minimal surface blemishes
• High firmness and optimal sugar-acid balance
• Ideal for export and premium retail segments
Fancy Grade
• Minor variations in color or shape
• Small cosmetic imperfections permitted
• Suitable for wholesale distribution and everyday retail
Commercial / Processing Grade
• Visible external defects permitted
• Maintains internal quality and flavor
• Used primarily for processing, juicing, and cooking
All grades adhere to internationally recognized apple quality standards, focusing on size consistency, color coverage, firmness, Brix levels, and freedom from decay or internal damage.