What’s the difference between a Peach and a Nectarine? Fresh Food Facts from Farmbox Delivery

Summer is almost here. What better time to pick out fresh food and local produce from your local farmers’ market or delivery service? At Farmbox Delivery, we believe in choosing organic fruits and vegetables that are grown locally and in season. Read on for our guide to peaches and nectarines, the perfect summer delights.

When are peaches and nectarines in season?

Peaches and nectarines are in season from May through October, but you’ll get the best fruits during the peak times of July and August. Most peaches and nectarines are grown in California. Although you can get peaches and nectarines all year, you’ll find the most delicious flavors and reasonable prices when you buy them in season.

What is the difference between peaches and nectarines?

Peaches and nectarines are very similar: their juiciness, flavor, and nutritional value.

The most apparent difference between peaches and nectarines? The texture of the outside.

Peaches and nectarines are nearly identical from a genetic perspective. They both have similar varieties of pits: freestone pits (easy to remove), clingstone pits (hard to remove), and semi-freestone pits (a mix of the two). They both have white-ish or yellow-ish flesh.

But the key difference is that peaches have fuzzy skin, and nectarines have smooth, waxy skin. This difference comes from a genetic variation between the two fruits. The smooth, waxiness is from the recessive trait of the nectarines.

Nectarines are typically smaller than peaches, but this is not always true. Some claim that nectarines are sweeter than peaches, but what matters more in determining sweetness is the overall ripeness – sweetness increases with ripeness, like many fruits.

Peaches can be a bit softer, so they are great for use in dishes with soft textures like pies, jams, and sauces. Nectarines are firmer, so they are better for adding to salads, desserts, or any other cooked dishes.

Which is better in the peaches vs. nectarines debate?

That’s up to you! Some people love the fuzz of peaches, and some prefer the smooth, waxy texture of nectarines. They can be used interchangeably while cooking, and they have a very similar taste. They are nutritionally similar and have comparable levels of sugars, fibers, and nutrients.

Peaches and nectarines are delicious, no matter how you eat them. Consider adding them both to your next Farmbox Delivery box.

For more on local organic produce and the benefits of Farmbox Delivery services, check out the rest of the blog.