With recent temperatures soaring into the triple digits, the question on everyone’s mind is fruit quality. As the Northwest cherry deal approaches its peak, retailers can be confident in one thing: Rainier Fruit Co. of Selah, WA, has taken the heat in stride.

In late June, the Pacific Northwest reached searing temperatures that have never been experienced before, especially this early in the fruit season, which has left fruit producers uncertain of its impact.

Over the last two decades, blueberries have transitioned from a specialty crop into a global commodity available year-round. Homegrown Organic Farms has been a staple in the category.

“Blueberries have grown to be probably the highest gross sales commodity for the company,” said Stephen Paul, stone fruit and blueberry category director for the Porterville, CA-based company.

The family-owned and operated farms that sell fruit under Rainier Fruit Co.’s label have been honing its craft for generations. The Selah, WA-based company is a leader in blueberries and runs a 100 percent organic blueberry operation.

Superfresh Growers has 700 acres of blueberries grown in the Umpqua River Valley in southern Oregon, where the mild, dry climate is ideal for producing delicious, large, high-quality blueberries over a long season.

When summer arrives, many of the best U.S. blueberries begin hitting produce aisles. With import problems from earlier in the year from places like Chile and Peru, consumers are looking forward to fresh blueberries.