The Apple Study
Researchers at the Australian National Phenome Centre (ANPC), Murdoch University, are currently studying the effect of apple and pear consumption on human health. Specifically, we are investigating the consumption of the Bravo® apple, a WA-bred apple shown to contain some of the highest levels of antioxidants among apple varieties.
Frequently asked questions
- What is a Bravo® apple and how is it different to any other apple?
The Bravo® apple variety is a WA bred apple that has a unique, burgundy coloured skin that has been shown to contain high levels of antioxidants. It is “non-browning”, so when you cut the apple, it does not go brown quickly as do other apple varieties, due to the high levels of antioxidants. They are also recognised as one of the juiciest and tastiest apples on the market.
- What are the trial objectives?
We want to discover the effects of Bravo® apple and pear consumption on cardiovascular disease and diabetes risk factors. We will measure changes in cholesterol, blood pressure and blood glucose levels after consuming these fruits for 8 weeks. Additionally, we will measure changes in chemical fingerprints (signatures) in blood, urine and stool before and after the 8-week consumption period.
- What will the study look like for me as a trial participant?
If you decide to sign the consent form and participate, we will invite you to attend a screening appointment at the Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research. During this appointment, we will confirm your eligibility based on a series of questions.
If you are eligible, four clinic visits will follow, each 4 weeks apart, with a 4-week break at the halfway point (for a total of 8 weeks for each fruit). At each visit, blood and urine samples (and preferably stool samples if you are comfortable) will be collected alongside blood pressure, blood sugar and other measurements. For a more detailed description, please refer to the information sheet and the diagram below explaining the study timeline.
4. What are the benefits/risks in participating?
The benefits of participating in the study include:
- Provided with apples/pears for 8 weeks each
- Find out blood sugar and blood pressure results if you choose to be informed of the results
- Gift vouchers for participating
The risks of participating include:
- Blood collection can always pose a risk of bruising and fainting. Fainting is less likely due to the small volume we collect or if you do not have a history of fainting while giving blood. Blood collection will be performed by a qualified phlebotomist.
- The samples provided could incidentally reveal information that indicates some kind of health risk. If you are concerned that we may find something that could be important for your health and safety, you can optionally select that you want the information to be provided to your family doctor in the consent form. Please see information sheet for details.
5. Where do I park my car? Do I have to pay for parking?
If you are eligible and decide to participate in the study, the researchers will provide you with guidance on where to park at Fiona Stanley Hospital next to Harry Perkins Institute. In short, parking is free for 30 minutes and if appointments go over the 30 minutes, you will be reimbursed for any costs incurred to you. Public transport will also be reimbursed.
6. Who is funding the study?
This study is funded by the Future Food System Cooperative Research Centre in partnership with Murdoch University, the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development and Fruit West.
7. Who has approved this study?
This study has been reviewed and approved by the Murdoch University Human Research Ethics Committee (reference number 2024/086).
8. What do I do if I am interested in participating?
Click on the link to the consent form and complete the form. The researchers will be notified of completion and will then reach out to you for the next step.
