We're Adapting to Changing Growing Conditions
This spring marks a milestone as we have increased our fruit dehydration capacity by 50% with the addition of another large-scale dehydrator in our Prosser, WA factory.
After 36 years in business, we have found that shifting seasons require the company to pivot. According to General Manager Tim Oten, “Chukar is nearing maximum capacity and in recent years Washington’s growing season has varied in ways not seen before. For example, the 2023 Washington cherry crop ripened in a 25-day period versus a historically normal 60-day period. The new dehydrator will not only increase capacity but prepare us for seasonal variability and changing growing conditions.” The design and manufacturing of the custom dryer was over a year in the making with all the work done locally.
The large dehydrator fits the company’s fruit-drying standards pioneered in the early 1980s by owner and founder, Pam Montgomery. "Years ago, the standard practice in dehydrating fruit was to add plenty of sugar, sulfites, and preservatives to keep the fruit’s bright color and extend shelf life. Chukar’s unique drying process places the true flavors and textures of a Northwest cherry front and center with no sugar or preservatives added” says Montgomery.
Chukar Cherries hopes to preserve more of nature's bounty in years to come—creating a sustainable market for local farmers and crafting delicious dried cherries, fruitful confections, snacks, and pantry products to be enjoyed and gifted by customers at CHUKAR.COM and at the our storefronts in Prosser, WA and Seattle’s Pike Place Market.
Click below to learn more and see us interviewed on the local KEPR news!
