The Nation - News from May 16, 1989

A leading apple growers association, reiterating its pledge to cease using the growth-enhancing chemical Alar, estimated the industry has lost $50 million in sales so far this year and could lose another $50 million because of public concern over the safety of apples. Derl I. Derr, president of the International Apple Institute, said at a Washington press conference there also has been a 30% drop in sales of applesauce and juice as a result of the scare over Alar-treated apples earlier this year. “The decline in sales of processed apple products may result in millions of apples being dumped, further adding to the loss,” Derr said. Sales of apples are down by 20%, he said.