California Strawberry Season Peak Extended into Fall

To meet increasing consumer demand for strawberries, California strawberry production is expected to hit its second highest season on record, extending peak season well into fall. As the country’s leading producer of strawberries growing 90 percent of all strawberries produced in the US, consumers can expect to see abundant availability in local grocery stores across the country, according to the California Strawberry Commission.

Kids and adults report strawberries as their favorite fruit with US household penetration increasing to nearly 71 percent. Strawberry popularity combined with exceptional 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 strawberries 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.

One cup of strawberries or 8 strawberries a day contain powerful nutrients such as antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium, folate, fiber and ellagic acid.

Clinical research suggests eating just one 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 more than 1.4 billion pounds of the delicious red fruit. Total strawberry acres for 2022 production increased 8 percent for a total of 40,714 acres. Fall planted acres that are harvested in the spring and summer increased 6.8 percent. Summer planted acres that are harvested in the fall and early winter increased 13.5 percent.

For more information on strawberries, recipes to incorporate them or to learn more about the many nutritional benefits of strawberries visit California Strawberries.