Apple expert Anni Sigl provides information for allergy sufferers in Kumreut

Apple expert Anni Sigl provides information for allergy sufferers in Kumreut

On May 30, 2025, an event with Anni Sigl, the renowned apple and garden expert, took place in the St. Elisabeth parish home in Kumreut. The Kumreut Old People's Club invited numerous interested parties from near and far to find out more about refining apple varieties. The room was filled to capacity, which underlined the great interest in this information. Anni Sigl brought knowledge about around 100 apple varieties and also informed those present about those types that are particularly suitable for allergy sufferers and diabetics.

For apple allergy sufferers and people with special dietary needs, choosing the right apple variety is crucial. Allergy-friendly apple varieties include “Boskop” and “Gräfin Goldach”. The “Santana” apple variety is particularly suitable for people with apple allergies. This information is based on Oekotest's findings, which indicate that allergy sufferers do not have to completely avoid apples if they choose the right varieties. The greatest success when eating apples occurs in the late and autumn months, when the aromatic fruits are freshly harvested.

Old apple varieties in focus

Another important aspect that Anni Sigl highlighted is that old apple varieties are often better tolerated. According to a study by the Berlin Charité in 2016/2017, regular consumption of these varieties can help reduce allergic symptoms without completely eliminating the allergy. Apples such as “Alkmene”, “Eifeler Rambur”, “Goldparmäne” and “Gravensteiner” are among these better-tolerated old varieties. They are characterized by a higher polyphenol content, which causes fewer reactions in allergy sufferers.

A current list of 12 more tolerable apple varieties indicates other varieties that are recommended for allergy sufferers. These include “Berlepsch”, “Finkenwerder Herbstprinz”, “Kaiser Wilhelm” and “Rubinette”. However, these heirloom varieties are difficult to find in supermarkets; Better options are often organic supermarkets, farm shops and weekly markets.

Practical tips for allergy sufferers

For allergy sufferers, it is advisable to prefer fresh apples, as they are better tolerated than those that have been stored for a longer period of time. In addition, the allergenic potential is often under the peel, which is why peeling the fruit can be a helpful measure. Processed apple products such as applesauce or apple cake are usually not a problem.

The information event in Kumreut offered valuable insights into the world of apples and gave those present practical tips on how they can optimize their choice of fruit with regard to allergies and intolerances. Even though allergies often affect specific varieties, it is possible to maintain the joy of eating apples by making the right selection. The entire event was appreciated by participants as very educational and informative, which underlines the importance of such events for the local community.

For further information about low-allergen apple varieties, those interested can view the BUND LEMGO compatibility list, which is based on the results of numerous tests and offers valuable information on selecting apple varieties for allergy sufferers.

You can find more on this topic in the articles from PNP, Ecotest and Health information center.