Northwest summer apricot season kicks off early
Northwest summer apricot season kicks off early
This season’s apricot harvest is ahead of schedule, according to Columbia Marketing International.The company reported that the 2014 crop is very strong as a result of a long spell of exceptional weather, which produced apricots that are sweet, juicy and flavorful.
"Apricots are roughly four days early this year, and will sell almost as quickly as they are picked off the tree,” according to Mo Woodward, a sales representative at CMI.
The median size for apricots this season is in the 72/80s range, which is an ideal size for eating out of hand or for cooking. Woodward went on to say that retailers and consumers alike will want to get their fill of apricots early, as they will only be on the shelves until the end of July.
CMI is promoting the versatility of cooking with apricots to their consumer fan base through the use of social media, and has set up a dedicated recipe board at http://www.pinterest.com/cmifruit/apricots/
Additionally, throughout the apricot season, consumers will be offered eating and handling tips via Facebook to help them find the perfect fruit. A special campaign, Summer Switch-Up, will be running to encourage consumers to consider using apricots in recipes that call for peaches.