Quality evaluation and rings yield of apple fruits grown at different elevations of Himachal Pradesh

On the basis of physico-chemical, sensory and microbial analysis, both the varieties grown in dry temperate location were most suitable for table purpose owing to uniform size, attractive colour, good flavour and crispness. Overall acceptability score was highest for Golden Delicious from L-3 location. At the same time rings yield was also maximum for the same variety from the same location. Microbial population was recorded highest for apple grown in wet temperate high hills location and lowest in dry temperate location thus indicating that it is the most congenial for production of quality apple for fresh fruit market as well as for processing into rings.