Core values: the Austrian scheme bringing forgotten apple varieties back to life
An Austrian retail pilot scheme is reintroducing heirloom apple varieties to supermarkets to promote biodiversity and preserve agricultural history. The project uses modern cultivation techniques to make these forgotten fruits commercially viable.
Why it matters
It highlights the intersection of commercial retail and environmental efforts to combat the loss of agricultural genetic diversity.
An apple pilot scheme will test whether long-lost varieties can thrive under today’s conditions. An apple pilot scheme will test whether long-lost varieties can thrive under today’s conditions. Fruit Core values: the Austrian scheme bringing forgotten apple varieties back to life Spar pilot scheme will test whether heirloom fruit can thrive in today’s commercial and environmental conditions
Deborah Cole Mon 19 Oct 2026 05.00 BST Share Prefer the Guardian on Google O nly about 10 of the 2,000 types of apples growing in Austria can be found in supermarkets among the polished, pristine fruit usually on display – a sad ratio according to fans of historic varieties being primed for a comeback.
One of the country’s biggest retail chains has embarked on a pilot rollout of unusual and long-forgotten apples enjoyed in previous centuries, riding an international trend of reviving heirloom fruit and vegetables.
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