N.Y. Apple Association Applauds McDonald's New Salad Item

FISHERS, N.Y. -- The New York Apple Association is lovin' it. On the heels of McDonald's Corp.'s recent debut of a new Fruit 'n Walnut Salad featuring fresh apple slices, the New York Apple Association based here was among those in the produce industry to high-five the move.

"We applaud McDonald's for taking a stand for better nutrition by serving what is possibly the world's healthiest food -- apples," said Jim Allen, president of the NYAA, which represents the Empire State's 695 apple growers. "We're excited for New York consumers, who are now able to get our great tasting, good-for-you apples at the nation's most popular fast food chain."

The new McDonald's salad follows on the success of Apple Dippers, another fresh apple menu item launched by the company last year.

Allen and Jeff Crist, an apple grower from Orange County, N.Y. attended the official unveiling ceremonies held last week at a McDonald's in Times Square. In addition to crisp, sliced apples, the premium salad consists of red grapes and frosted walnuts, topped with a non-fat yogurt.

The Fruit 'n Walnut Salad, much like the Apple Dippers line, is expected to have a significant impact on the New York apple industry. The company says it will purchase upwards of 54 million pounds of fresh apples per year to satisfy its two apple-related menu items, making the fast food giant one of the biggest fresh apple buyers in the nation.
-- Meg Major
X
This ad will auto-close in 10 seconds