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Are apples from the ground safe for preserving?

Q:

We picked up two five-gallon buckets full of apples that were laying on the ground from our tree. We have never sprayed our tree, and we don't have any pets. Can I make applesauce and pies out of the apples or, in an abundance of caution, compost them?

A:

The problem with canning apples from windfalls is that they have a higher microorganism count and the applesauce will sometimes mold, even when processed properly.

This is why we recommend peeling apples first, then reheating the sauce to boiling before putting it into the jars before processing. If you don't want to can the sauce, it will freeze with no problems.

You should have no problem making apple sauce and pies from your apples. I would suggest washing them well and peeling and cutting off all of the bruised spots before cooking them.

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