The Weight of One Kilogram in Apples: A Journey Through Time and Tradition

How many apples make up one kilogram? This question, though simple, takes us on a journey through time, exploring the evolution of measurement units, changes in agriculture, and the enduring relationship between people and apples.

Historical Measurement Units and Apples

Before the decimalization of currency, determining the weight of apples was much simpler. A pound was often assumed to contain about 4 apples, though precise measurements were less common. Shops used swinging beam balances and physical weights, with occasional checks by authorities like the Weights and Measures authority. Today, things have changed - one kilogram (1 kg) is equivalent to approximately 2.2 pounds. An apple weighs about 200 grams, meaning 5 or 6 average-sized apples make one kilogram.

Evolution of Available Fruits

Yesteryear, before refrigerated transportation, the seasonal availability of fruits was a significant constraint. Apples, pears, and other locally-grown fruits were the norm, with little available out of season. Victorian grandhouses thrived on the fruits and grapes grown in their heated conservatories. After World War II, many exotic fruits like bananas, melons, and oranges were virtually unknown. The concept of food miles and the variety of available fruits year-round are modern phenomena, bringing us richer culinary experiences today.

Preservation Techniques and Drying Process

Without refrigeration, traditional methods like pickling and drying were used to preserve fruits and vegetables. To dry apples, people would place them on trays in a dry, well-ventilated shed. The mice found these dried apples very tempting, showcasing the time-honored tradition of food preservation. Before refrigeration, sausages were made in factories like my father's in Paisley, Glasgow. Rats were a common issue, with the acceptability of a certain number of rat hairs per ounce in the flour used for sausage-making.

Supermarkets and Market Stalls

The rise of supermarkets has significantly impacted local markets. Market stalls, once bustling and competitive, have become less appealing due to the lower profit margins in net sales. Traditional market stalls, offering higher rates per unit weight, can no longer compete. This shift has made the rate per unit weight less obvious, though the actual prices haven't changed much. Old money measurement units, like inches, feet, and chains, were based on practical observations, often tied to human or animal capabilities. These units have been replaced by more standardized metric measurements, although they lack the charm and cultural significance of their predecessors.

Conclusion

The weight of one kilogram in apples remains much the same, though the context in which we consider this measurement has evolved. From the practical, often hand-measured apples of old to the modern, precise kilograms of today, apples continue to play an important role in our lives. Whether tossed into a digital scale or weighed out with a traditional balance, the answer to the question of how many apples make up a kilogram remains a delightful exploration of time, tradition, and technology.

Keywords: apples, kilogram, weight