Chukar Cherries Utilizes Washington State's Record Yielding Cherry Crop

May 22, 2007 (PRLEAP.COM) Business News
Prosser, WA - Chukar Cherries, Washington State’s year round manufacturer of naturally dried cherries, confections and gourmet treats, is gearing up for another record year of cherry processing. The Northwest Cherry Commission recently predicted Washington State will harvest 120,000 tons of sweet cherries, making the Pacific Northwest, the world’s foremost producer. Northwest’s cherries are shipped fresh world-wide for cherry-lovers to enjoy in season and a select few are delivered to Chukar Cherries headquarters in Prosser, Washington where the fruit is carefully processed and preserved for year ‘round use under the Chukar® brand.

In early June, Chukar Cherries’ seasoned Production Manager, Kathleen Young, will start to direct final preparations on the cherry processing line, which transforms the fresh cherries into Chukar’s own dehydrated morsels using a classic drying process. To accomplish this process in the short cherry season, Chukar will hire extra seasonal employees. “It takes a lot of work to get the cherries just right – many sleepless nights,” said Young. All Chukar’s signature treats are made from scratch in small batches at Chukar Cherries Northwest Kitchen.

The Chukar Cherries mission is to transform and add value to Washington State’s agricultural bounty. “When Chukar Cherries was just launched, I wanted to create 100% natural gourmet foods that reflected the flavor and palate of our region. Luscious Washington State cherries were the ideal crop, “said Pam Montgomery, owner and founder. Each day tourists and locals alike visit Chukar Cherries Retail Stores to taste and purchase northwest cherry creations.

Chukar Cherries was founded by Pam Montgomery on her family’s cherry orchard almost 19 years ago. Located in Washington State, Chukar Cherries produces a wide array of pure food gifts that exemplify the regional bounty and natural flavors of the Pacific Northwest. All products are 100% Natural and Kosher certified KOF-K. Chukar Cherries has two retail locations in Washington; Pike Place Market; Seattle, Prosser Headquarters. Visit www.chukar.com or call 1.800-624.9544.