APPLE RASPBERRY BABY FOOD RECIPE: FACTS
APPLE FACTS
AN APPLE A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY:
When the phrase, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” was first coined, it was not referring to the wonderful health benefits of the apple. It was referring to consuming a mere round fruit daily. Today, we see why an apple a day can actually keep the doctor away due to numerous health benefits.
- VITAMIN C: Vitamin C is a powerful natural antioxidant capable of blocking some of the damage caused by free radicals, as well as boosting the body’s resistance against infectious agents. Vitamin C is known for boosting the immune system and creating resistance to disease.
- B-COMPLEX VITAMINS: B-complex vitamins (riboflavin, thiamin, and vitamin B-6) are key in maintaining red blood cell health, nervous system function, and providing energy.
- FIBER: Dietary fiber is high in apples and helps to combat constipation.
- PHYTONUTRIENTS: Phytonutrients help protect the body from free radicals which cause long term diseases including cancer.
- MINERALS: Calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are contained within the apple itself.
RASPBERRY FACTS
History
Red raspberries have been growing throughout Europe for centuries. It is believed that they originated in Turkey and spread throughout Mediterranean Europe. The Romans took raspberries throughout their empire – including to Britain.
In the 16th century, people of England started cultivating raspberries. However, wild raspberries continued to grow throughout the country and were harvested and used. Over time, superior strains were identified and cultivated into the plants that we still see today.
Raspberries grow best in places that have cool summers, mild winters and a rain-free harvesting season. About 90% of all raspberries in the USA are grown in Oregon, Washington and California. However, Wisconsin-grown raspberries can be found throughout the late summer.
American Raspberry
When explorers and settlers arrived in North America, they discovered a black raspberry growing. The black raspberry was firmer, contained more seeds, and not as sweet as the red raspberry of Europe. Settlers planted red raspberry seeds that were brought with them. In 1771, the British starting shipping red raspberry plants to New York. Black raspberries weren’t cultivated until the 1800’s. Today, they remain a less popular variety of raspberry.
Fun Facts
▪ Raspberries can be red, black, purple, and golden in color
▪ Black raspberries are different from blackberries
▪ Raspberries shouldn’t be washed until immediately before eating
▪ Raspberries are the most delicate berry because they have a hollow core
▪ There are over 200 species of raspberries across the world
▪ Raspberries are a member of the rose family
▪ Raspberry plants can live for up to 10 years
▪ Raspberries are made up of many connecting, individual sections of fruit, each with its own seed that surround a central core.
APPLE RASPBERRY BABY FOOD RECIPE: INGREDIENTS
¼ cup raspberries
2 sweet tasting apples, peeled and chopped
Breastmilk/formula (optional)
APPLE RASPBERRY BABY FOOD RECIPE: STEPS
- Puree the apples and raspberries together
- Add the breastmilk/formula to achieve appropriate consistency, as desired
- Serve or freeze