POMEWEST bravo®

Fruit West Cooperative has launched an innovative research initiative in collaboration with Murdoch University aimed at exploring the remarkable health benefits of Bravo® apples.

Words Nardia Stacy, Executive Manager, Pomewest

THIS cutting-edge research project focuses specifically on the high polyphenol apple variety known as ANABP 01A , which is marketed as Bravo® in Australia and Soluna® in international markets.

Backed by the Future Food Systems Cooperative Research Centre (CRC), this project unites the expertise of Fruit West Cooperative, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD), and Bruker BioSpin. Together, they strive to uncover and provide robust scientific evidence that highlights the nutritional advantages associated with consuming Bravo® apples, potentially reinforcing their role as a vital component of a healthy diet.

Bravo® apples are the remarkable result of over twenty years of dedicated research and development. This exceptional fruit was born from the impeccable qualities of the Royal Gala and the robust Cripps Red apple varieties, crafted by the Department of Agriculture and Food in Western Australia. What sets Bravo® apples apart is their impressive resistance to browning after being cut, ensuring their fresh, appealing appearance lasts longer. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these apples also have health benefits, boasting high levels of polyphenols and antioxidant compounds. This unique combination not only enhances their flavour profile but also makes them a standout choice in the market for health-conscious consumers.

Mrs Ann Lyster, Chair of Fruit West Co-operative, stated, “By providing robust scientific evidence, we can confidently continue to promote the unique attributes of Bravo™ and Soluna® branded apples, meeting consumer demands and growing the domestic and international market.”

Dr Ruey Leng Loo, who is leading the study, said, “Currently, human intervention studies on apples have yielded contradictory results. This study aims to fill those gaps by analysing the impact of Bravo® apples on cardiovascular health.”

The project will involve a human nutrition study conducted at the Australian National Phenome Centre (ANPC). During this study, volunteers will consume Bravo® apples and a control fruit daily for a duration of 8 weeks. Biological specimens will be collected to assess the impact of the apples on blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood glucose levels, and other indicators of cardiovascular disease risk.

A significant focus of the project is the creation of new branded and value-added products derived from ANABP 01A apples at the Sustainable Innovative Food Technologies (SIFT) center. These products will undergo processing with high-pressure techniques designed to extend their shelf life while maintaining the apples’ health benefits. Additionally, the Soluna® apple value-added products will be evaluated for their health-promoting compounds using advanced analytical techniques at the ANPC.

Mr Rohan Prince, Director of Horticulture and Irrigated Agriculture at DPIRD, emphasised the state’s commitment to supporting local businesses:

“This project underscores our dedication to sustainable economic growth through the promotion of local agricultural products.”

Dr James Krahe, CEO of Future Food Systems CRC, spoke about the project’s potential: “The commercial prospects of this research are immense, especially in validating health claims for Bravo™ apples, which will boost their marketability.”

“This collaborative effort brings together the agrifood sector, government, academia, and local communities to generate reliable evidence about the foods we consume,” Dr Loo added.

The local Western Australian community is encouraged to participate in the study. Interested individuals can register on line The Apple Study —Bravo® apples.

Fruit West Co-operative holds the exclusive license to manage the commercialisation of ANABP 01A sold as Bravo® apples in Australia and Soluna® internationally.

Hon Jackie Jarvis (Minister for Agriculture and Food), Robyn Clarke (MLA Member for Murray-Wellington), Vicki McAllister (A/Director Horticulture and Irrigated Agriculture DPIRD), Peter Davis (Professor Food Futures Institute, MU), David Doepel (Future Food Systems, MU), Ruey Leng Loo (A/Professor, Australian National Phenome Centre, MU), Stuart Johnson (SAAFE CRC/MU), Rebecca Blackman (Executive Manager, WA Farm Direct on behalf of Fruitwest) and Daniel Taylor (Senior Intellectual Property Officer, DPIRD).