The juicy stone fruit is celebrated for its sweetness, long
history and health benefits
When a fruit is named after a word meaning “drink of the gods,” you know it’s gotta be good.
June 20 is California Nectarine Day, and as the juicy, sweet fruit reaches its peak season in July, it’s a good time to learn more about the nectarine’s history and versatility.
Derived from the Greek word “nektar,” the nectarine originated in China more than 2,000 years ago, according to the California Tree Fruit Agreement, an organization founded in 1933 that handles marketing for the state’s peach, plum and nectarine growers. The fuzz-less fruit was cultivated in ancient Persia, Rome and Greece before being introduced to the United States by the Spanish in the 18th century.
Today, California produces more than 90 percent of the United States’ nectarine crop, and most are grown in the San Joaquin Valley. The acreage of California-grown nectarines totals about 36,000.
Although there are 175 varieties of nectarines, 20 percent of the total California crop are called Summerwhite nectarines. This variety, crisper than other varieties, has a creamy white skin with splashes of pink, and pale white-yellow to pink flesh.
Nectarines, which grow mid-May through September, are sometimes confused with their cousin, the peach. The main difference is that peaches have fuzz and nectarines do not. It is thought that the nectarine predates the peach, and it’s possible that peaches are a cross between nectarines and almonds.
Not only do nectarines taste good, they’re also packed with health benefits. Among the nectarine’s health benefits are an abundance of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium, fiber and antioxidants. The fruit also contains phytonutrients, which can help fight cancer, and carotenoids, which act as antioxidants and can also be converted by the body into vitamin A.
Creating greater awareness of the benefits of nectarines is one reason California Nectarine Day was created, said Blair Richardson, president of the California Tree Fruit Agreement.
“We’re also trying to gain greater recognition for California nectarine growers,” he said. “They’re a significant part of our agricultural economy in California, and nectarines are a fantastic fruit.”
For more information, including recipes, go to the California Tree Fruit Agreement’s Web site at www.eatcaliforniafruit.com.
