Northwest Cherry Season Arrives, Bringing Sweetness and Endless Culinary Possibilities

Favorable conditions indicate nearly 13% harvest increase   

YAKIMA, Wash., June 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Northwest sweet cherry season is here, coloring produce aisles nationwide with vibrant red hues. More than just a delicious snack, these summertime superfruits boast surprising versatility, inspiring culinary creativity from savory mains to sweet desserts, while providing health benefits that enhance well-being.

"We eagerly anticipate the start of sweet cherry season each year," stated Karley Lange, director of domestic promotions for Northwest Cherry Growers. "This season, growers are expecting a strong crop with a potential for at least 22 million 20 lb. boxes, marking a 13% increase compared to last year's harvest. Our growers are the heart of the Northwest cherry industry, and their commitment ensures a premium product every season."

Northwest-grown cherries are packed with vitamins and nutrients, boosting health with every handful. Recent research reveals remarkable anti-inflammatory properties attributed to the fruit's high anthocyanin content. These antioxidants help combat oxidative stress and support overall wellness. Additional studies indicate that the natural melatonin in cherries can improve sleep quality. Plus, cherries are an excellent source of fiber, aiding digestion and promoting heart health. 

"Sweet cherry season, from mid-June through early September, is a fantastic time to load up on flavor and vital nutrients. Sweet cherries help reduce inflammation, are low glycemic, provide a good source of fiber, vitamin C and potassium, and are naturally fat-free, making them an excellent snack for most diets," explains Jaclyn London, MS, RD, CDN. "These versatile superfruits can enhance everything from your breakfast yogurt to your evening chicken dish, all while providing valuable vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants that fuel a healthy diet."

Northwest-grown sweet cherries are harvested by more than 2,500 growers across Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, and Montana, who together account for over 70% of the fresh cherries found in stores nationwide. With their short harvest season, Northwest cherries have a limited window to be enjoyed fresh and are available from now through the summer. Recipe inspiration and health benefits are at www.nwcherries.com. 

About Northwest Cherry Growers
Founded in 1947, Northwest Cherry Growers is a growers' organization funded solely by self-imposed fruit assessments used to increase awareness and consumption of regionally grown stone fruits. The organization is dedicated to the promotion, education, market development and research of cherries from Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah and Montana orchards.

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SOURCE Northwest Cherry Growers