It's Peachy! Introducing Peterson Family Fruit

It's Peachy! Introducing Peterson Family Fruit

Kowalski's is happy to announce a new partnership with Peterson Family Fruit. The Petersons have been farming stone fruit in California's Central Valley since 1893. Following the generations before them, father-son duo Vern and Erik Peterson are passionate about stewardship of the land and what it produces. Together, they carry on the 100-year family tradition of growing some of the most flavorful peaches, plums, apricots and nectarines ever available.

Vern and Erik Peterson Vern and Erik Peterson

Peterson Family Fruit aims to simplify farming by creating the happiest soils, people and fruit. Since their transition to organic over 20 years ago, the Petersons prioritize techniques that improve soil health to cultivate abundant and nutritious fruit. Building on foundational organic farming practices, the Petersons became the fi­rst Gold-level Regenerative Organic Certifi­ed (ROC) stone fruit operation in the world.

Healthy soil is the foundation of regenerative organic farming techniques. Th­is includes promoting an environment where microorganisms can thrive, further enriching the soil on which Peterson trees stand. The most nutritious and healthy fruit comes from happy soil. Regenerative techniques aim to sequester CO2 into the soil, meaning less carbon in the air and more organic matter in the soil. Peterson orchards are doing their part to reduce the negative impacts of carbon emissions in the atmosphere. ­In turn, this allows them to grow delicious stone fruit.

Peterson Family Fruit Nectarines Peterson Family Fruit Nectarines

Peterson's Equitable Food Initiative (EFI) certified farming operation meets more than 300 of the industry's highest standards for labor practices, food safety and pest management. EFI is a nonprofit certifier and skill-building organization that brings transparency and greater assurance to the food supply chain. EFI brings together growers, farmworkers, retailers and consumers to solve the most pressing issues facing the fresh produce industry. Its unparalleled approach sets standards for labor practices, food safety and pest management while engaging workers at all levels. The program ensures a commitment to continuous improvement and provides farmworkers with a place and the necessary skills to raise and address workplace issues and concerns. The EFI Premium Bonus Program creates a direct link for the first time between farmworkers and retailers. This premium recognizes and compensates farmworkers for the highly skilled work they perform to keep food safe and the supply chain strong.