Did you know ?
- Georgia is nicknamed the ‘Peach State’ in the United States.
- A peach tree can live up to 12 years.
- Nectarines are a variety of peaches without the fuzzy skin.
Peach
The peach is a sweet and juicy stone fruit native to China. Known for its fuzzy skin and fragrant flesh, peaches are consumed fresh, baked, or preserved. They are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fiber.
View other Stone fruits
Detailed nutritional values
Section titled “ Detailed nutritional values”Values of an average peach (~150g) :
| Calories | 58 kcal |
| Proteins | 1g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| of which sugars | 13g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Fats | 0.4g |
Vitamins and minerals
Main vitamins
Main minerals and trace elements
Nutritional values may vary depending on variety, ripeness, and growing conditions.
How to know if a peach is ripe
Section titled “ How to know if is ripe”
Perfectly ripe
Juicy, sweet, and fragrant.
How to recognize this state :
- Slight give near the stem when pressed
- Sweet aroma
- Stem detaches easily
- Brighter color (varies by type)
- Smooth, buttery texture
- Yields slightly to pressure
- Pleasant, sweet fragrance
- Vibrant color
Advice for ripe products
A perfectly ripe peach offers the best flavor and texture. Consume it quickly or refrigerate to maintain freshness for 3-5 days.
Varieties examples
Section titled “ Varieties examples”Yellow Peach
Classic peach with yellow flesh and sweet-tart flavor.
White Peach
Sweeter than yellow peaches with pale flesh and floral notes.
Donut Peach
Flat-shaped peach with a mild sweetness and low acidity.
Clingstone Peach
Flesh clings tightly to the pit; ideal for canning and preserving.
How to choose a peach
Section titled “ How to choose ”To choose a quality peach at the supermarket or market :
- Look for fruit with rich color and slight give near the stem.
- Smell near the stem - it should be sweet and fragrant.
- Avoid fruit with bruises, cuts, or wrinkles.
- Check the stem, it needs to detaches easily
- Choose peaches that are heavy for their size.
How to store a peach
Section titled “ How to store ”Unripe peaches should be stored at room temperature to ripen naturally.
Ripe peaches can be refrigerated to slow down further ripening and maintain freshness for up to one week.
Cut peaches should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, with a sprinkle of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Peaches can also be frozen by slicing them and placing them on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags.
How to ripen a peach
Section titled “ How to ripen ”If you bought an unripe peach, here's how to speed up the process :
- Place peaches in a paper bag at room temperature.
- Add an apple or banana to the bag to release ethylene gas and speed up ripening.
- Store peaches near a sunny window, but avoid direct sunlight to prevent spoilage.
- Leave them on the counter in a single layer for natural ripening.
Health benefits of a peach
Section titled “ Health benefits of ”- Rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, which boost immunity.
- Good source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion.
- Contains vitamins A and C that support skin health.
- Provides potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
- Contains beta-carotene, which benefits eye health.
Origin of a peach
Section titled “ Origin of ”Peaches originated in China over 4,000 years ago and were considered symbols of immortality. They spread to Persia (modern-day Iran) via trade routes and later reached Europe through Alexander the Great. Spanish explorers introduced peaches to North America in the 16th century. Today, they are grown worldwide in temperate climates.
Regions of origin
- China (origin)
- Persia (Middle East)
- Europe (introduced via trade)
- North America (modern cultivation)
Cook a peach according to its ripeness
Section titled “ Cook according to its ripeness”Unripe
- Peach chutney
- Grilled unripe peach slices
- Peach jam with spices (adjust sugar levels)
Perfectly ripe
- Classic peach cobbler
- Peach smoothie with yogurt
- Peach BBQ sauce
Too ripe
- Peach jam
- Peach butter
- Peach crisp
Frequently asked questions
Section titled “ Frequently asked questions”Warnings and precautions for a peach
Section titled “ Warnings and precautions for ”- Peach pits contain cyanide and are toxic if consumed.
- Some individuals may be allergic to peaches.
- Peach skin can trigger oral allergy syndrome in sensitive individuals.
- High FODMAP content may cause digestive issues for some.
- Peaches may contain pesticides and should be washed before consumption
Do not confuse with
Is genetically nearly identical to peaches, but has smooth skin.
Smaller with less juice and a more tart flavor.
Generally has smoother skin and different flavor notes.