According to an article by Dr Max Pemberton in the Telegraph, apples contain more vitamin C than many supplements, as well as being packed with any number of other health promoting substances.

"In a study conducted by Cornell University, it was found that in addition to vitamin C, apples contained many other chemicals, including the antioxidants flavonoids and polyphenols. This meant that eating a small apple gave a combined antioxidant effect equivalent to 1,500mg of vitamin C – a dose far higher than most supplements.

"In addition, the apple was found to have anti-allergy, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties as a result of the presence of an array of other “phytochemicals”. This might be why a Cochrane review – an analysis of all the key research on a subject – found that even very high doses of supplementary vitamin C did nothing to prevent colds in the general population"

More than enough reason to support your local community orchard!