Envy Apple
Last updated: 16 Apr 2026
Envy Apple is a premium apple variety from New Zealand, developed through a cross between Braeburn and Royal Gala. It is known for its exceptionally sweet and juicy flavor, combined with a firm and crisp texture. Another standout characteristic is its low oxidation rate, meaning that once sliced, the flesh does not turn brown as quickly as most other apple varieties.
However, in the mid-1980s, New Zealand’s apple industry faced increasing competition, particularly from other Southern Hemisphere producers. Although traditional varieties remained popular in export markets, their differentiation in quality began to diminish.
This challenge led the industry to recognize the need for a new apple variety that could offer distinctive quality and a strong identity in the global market—ultimately resulting in the development of Envy Apple.
In 1985, scientists from the Bioeconomy Science Institute, then part of New Zealand’s Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), initiated a breeding program at an experimental orchard in Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay.
The project involved crossbreeding Royal Gala and Braeburn, aiming to combine the balanced sweetness of Royal Gala with the firm texture and complex flavor of Braeburn.
This breeding effort produced over 8,000 seeds, which were cultivated into approximately 7,000 seedlings. Through a rigorous selection process, only 211 candidates were advanced for further evaluation. Ultimately, the standout variety—Envy Apple, scientifically known as Scilate—was identified.
The entire development process took more than 20 years, highlighting the level of precision, patience, and continuous evaluation required to create a new apple variety. Envy Apple was officially launched to the market in 2008.
Today, Envy Apple production focuses not only on taste but also on sustainability. Farmers involved in the program are required to adopt water-efficient irrigation systems, use organic fertilizers, and implement digital sorting technologies to ensure that only the highest-quality fruits reach consumers.
You can find Envy Apple at Rimping Supermarket.
Origins and Development
New Zealand has long played a significant role in the development of modern apple varieties, thanks to its favorable climate, fertile soil, and the expertise of farmers passed down through generations. Early popular varieties included Royal Gala and Braeburn.However, in the mid-1980s, New Zealand’s apple industry faced increasing competition, particularly from other Southern Hemisphere producers. Although traditional varieties remained popular in export markets, their differentiation in quality began to diminish.
This challenge led the industry to recognize the need for a new apple variety that could offer distinctive quality and a strong identity in the global market—ultimately resulting in the development of Envy Apple.
In 1985, scientists from the Bioeconomy Science Institute, then part of New Zealand’s Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), initiated a breeding program at an experimental orchard in Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay.
The project involved crossbreeding Royal Gala and Braeburn, aiming to combine the balanced sweetness of Royal Gala with the firm texture and complex flavor of Braeburn.
This breeding effort produced over 8,000 seeds, which were cultivated into approximately 7,000 seedlings. Through a rigorous selection process, only 211 candidates were advanced for further evaluation. Ultimately, the standout variety—Envy Apple, scientifically known as Scilate—was identified.
The entire development process took more than 20 years, highlighting the level of precision, patience, and continuous evaluation required to create a new apple variety. Envy Apple was officially launched to the market in 2008.
Key Characteristics of Envy Apple
Appearance
Envy apples are medium to large in size, with a diameter of approximately 7–8 centimeters. The skin is thick and durable, with a deep red color covering most of the surface, sometimes with subtle striping. The skin is glossy, with small pale yellow lenticels scattered across it.Texture and Flavor
The flesh is pale yellow to creamy white, exceptionally firm and crisp, and rich in juice. The flavor is distinctly sweet with very low acidity, complemented by a delicate floral aroma that provides a refreshing eating experience.Oxidation Resistance
One of the most notable features of Envy Apple is its slow oxidation rate. When cut or peeled, the flesh maintains its creamy white color for several hours, unlike most apples that quickly turn brown.Durability and Storage
Thanks to its thick and resilient skin, Envy Apple is highly resistant to damage during long-distance transportation. It also retains its crispness and quality over extended storage periods, making it a strong advantage in the global fruit export industry.Managed Variety System
Another factor that sets Envy Apple apart from traditional apple varieties is its “Managed Variety” or “Club Variety” system. This means that not all farmers are allowed to cultivate it freely. Growers must obtain authorization and adhere to strict standards to ensure consistent quality, controlled production, and stable pricing in the global market.Global Expansion and Sustainability
Following its success in New Zealand, Envy Apple has been cultivated in other countries such as Australia, the United States, and Chile. This expansion is managed through intellectual property rights, with the variety’s owners controlling production and distribution to maintain its premium image and quality.Today, Envy Apple production focuses not only on taste but also on sustainability. Farmers involved in the program are required to adopt water-efficient irrigation systems, use organic fertilizers, and implement digital sorting technologies to ensure that only the highest-quality fruits reach consumers.
You can find Envy Apple at Rimping Supermarket.
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