Seasonality:
- Peaches are available from May to September, with peak season being July to August.
We partnered with The Packer to showcase peaches and some tips & tricks you may not know about it.
Health Benefits of Peaches:
- Peaches are a rich source of Vitamins A, C and E. They also contain high amounts of potassium, magnesium, zinc and phosphorus.
- Peaches are rich in phytochemicals called phenols that act as antioxidants.
How to Select Peaches:
- When selecting peaches, smell the fruit, it should have a pleasingly sweet fragrance.
- Look for a creamy gold to yellow under color. The red or “blush” of a peach is an indication of variety, not ripeness.
- Peaches should be soft to the touch but not mushy. Don’t squeeze peaches; they bruise easily.
How to Store Peaches:
- Place firm peaches on the counter at room temperature and they will ripen within a few days.
- Promptly refrigerate ripe peaches, and eat them within a week of purchase.
How to Prepare Peaches:
- Peaches can be peeled with a knife or by dipping it into boiling water for 30 seconds, then in cold water. Then peel should slide off easily.
- To remove the pit, slice the peach in half around the pit, twist the halves and remove the pit.
- To keep sliced peaches from browning, dip them into a mixture of 1 cup water with 1 Tbsp. lemon juice.
Fun Facts About Peaches:
- The first peach orchard in the USA was established in Florida in 1565.
- A healthy stress-reliever that helps reduce anxiety, peaches are often referred to as the ‘Fruit of Calmness’ in Hungary.
Learn more at the National Peach Council, Georgia Peach Council, New Jersey Peach Promotional Council and the South Carolina Peach Council.
Get additional resources in our Nutrition Education Center
