Apple Growers, Grocers Join to Fight Cancer

FISHERS, N.Y. -- The New York Apple Association, based here, and local grocery stores, together with the American Cancer Society have contributed $25,000 to promote healthy eating and raise awareness of fresh apples' cancer-fighting attributes, to coincide with the American Cancer Society's designation of April as National Cancer Control Month.

Participating retailers including Sure Fine, IGA, Foodlands, Farm Fresh Foods, Jubilee, Tops Markets, BiLo, and Quality have placed promotional posters in their produce departments next to displays of McIntosh, Empire, and other New York apple varieties. In-store signage features the likeness of Linda Quinn, a nutritionist for the New York Apple Association.

Among the N.Y. apple organization's previous fundraising efforts over the past three years were selling apples and applesauce at the New York State Fair, and spring promotions with retailers.

Lisa Smith, regional v.p. for the American Cancer Society, said, "Partnering with organizations like the New York Apple Association increases the awareness of healthy eating as well as raises funds to support us in the fight against cancer through research, education, advocacy, and patient services."

Research from Ithaca, N.Y.-based Cornell University indicates that apples can help prevent breast cancer, and that chemicals in apple skins help fight colon and liver cancer.

With 695 commercial apple growers, New York ranks second nationally in apple production, having harvested an estimated 25 million bushels last year. Since 2000 the New York Apple Association has raised over $100,000 for the American Cancer Society and cancer research programs.
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