Stemilt production landscape

The United States Department of Agriculture USDA) has awarded US fresh produce group Stemilt Growers' peaches and nectarines 100 per cent organic certification following a three-year waiting period.

According to a report in the Seattle Times the group, which already producers 26 per cent of organic apples in Washington and 32 per cent of organic pears in the northwest, will market the fruit under the 'Artisan Organic' label.

To achieve USDA-granted organic status, the crop must be grown for three years free from any form of pesticides or fertiliser, which can cost up to 30 per cent more for growers.

'The main emphasis on the fruit is pushing flavour – naturally farmed for ultimate flavour,' said Stemilt's director of marketing Roger Pepperl.

The Wenatchee-based company is planning to pack around 1m boxes of peaches and nectarines this season, The Packer Reported.

In addition, around 40 per cent of Stemilt's apricot crop is organic.