HPMC procures the apples directly from farmers. In 2008-09, of the 21,400 tonnes procured, about 8,000 tonnes were processed.

It had produced over 721 tonnes of juice concentrate, of which 400 tonnes are lying unsold.

'Last year, Parle Agro was our major buyer, but this time there is hardly any bulk order,' an HPMC official said.

Other companies that buy the apple concentrate include Godrej Industries, Nestle and Mohan Meakin.

Himachal Pradesh is one of India's major apple-producing regions, with more than 200,000 families engaged in the cultivation of the fruit.

The state produced 510,000 tonnes of apples in 2008-09, though less than the 593,000 tonnes produced in 2007-08.

The apple economy of the state is around Rs.1,500 crore and flourishes mainly in Shimla, Kullu, Mandi, Lahaul and Spiti, Kinnaur and Chamba districts.