Not Just any Peach…A Jersey Fresh Peach!

By Millicent K. Brody

Long awaited, eagerly anticipated—New Jersey’s fresh peaches have arrived. Juicier than ever from early summer rains, and perfectly blushed with golden undertones, they’re appearing at restaurants, supermarkets, farm stands, and farmers’ markets. According to the New Jersey Peach Promotion Council, the state’s primary source for selecting and handling peaches, “This year’s crop is just what consumers should be looking for.”

“We have a near full crop,” says Santo Maccherone, Peach Promotion Council president. “Cooler weather during bloom did a good job of thinning flowers. Enhanced by timely rainfalls, the fruit size is excellent. With no major disease or insect problems, sunny weather has brought out the sugar to produce nutritious, delicious, locally grown, yellow and white peaches and nectarines.”

The beautiful peaches found at Dreyer’s Farm in Cranford arrive from Circle M Farms in Mullica Hill and Salem. Farmers there also grow white peaches, nectarines, white nectarines, and yellow and white Saturn peaches.

“Our peaches are best for eating, preserving, and baking,” said proprietor John Dreyer. “Be sure to ask your favorite farmer for his peach selection of the week.”

Jersey Fresh peaches are being celebrated with special events and promotions at 13 farmers markets, 26 restaurants, and supermarkets throughout the state. On August 1st, the Collingswood Farmers Market has packed a full-day celebration of “The Peach” with music, story telling, raffles for a peach basket, peach-dish tastings, and more. Throughout the state, participating farmers markets and restaurants have created their own special events.

For more information, visit the NJ Peach Promotion Council website. www.jerseypeaches.com You’ll find recipes from participating restaurants; nutritional information, (a peach contains only 68 calories and is packed with vitamins, minerals, Omega 3 and other nutrients); what to look for when purchasing peaches, and how to handle, freeze and can this versatile fruit.
Want a peachy dinner? Find a restaurant near you that's celebrating peach month!