From Santa Cruz to Santa Maria and Ventura, the California strawberry crop is expected to hit its second highest season on record this year, extending peak production well into fall. As the leading state producer growing 90% of all strawberries available commercially in the United States, approximately three quarters of the harvest is packed fresh for retail markets while one quarter goes into frozen production.
According to surveys, children and adults regard strawberries as their favorite fruit, with US household penetration increasing to nearly 71%. Strawberry popularity combined with value is driving more than 1.2 billion supermarket pound sales annually – more than all other berries combined.
“California strawberries are available year-round, and we are excited our peak season will extend into the fall. The increased demand for them can be attributed to their benefits to health and well-being, plus the many ways they can be enjoyed in snacks and meals,” said California Strawberry Commission Senior Vice President Chris Christian.
The extended season announcement follows the summer trend where strawberries were seen not only on sweet and savory plates, but also trending in fashion and beauty. One cup of strawberries or eight strawberries a day contain powerful nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium, folate, fiber and ellagic acid.
Clinical research suggests eating a serving of eight strawberries a day may improve heart health, help manage diabetes, support brain health and reduce the risk of some cancers. Year to date, California strawberry farmers have produced over 1.4 billion pounds of the tasty red fruit. Strawberry acreage under cultivation in 2022 increased 8% for a total of 40,714 acres. Fall planted acres that are harvested in the spring and summer increased 6.8%. Summer planted acres that are harvested in the fall and early winter increased 13.5%.
