Peach – the taste of summer
Nutrition
Peaches are naturally refreshing, with about 88% water and only 42 kcal per 100 g1
Seasonality
In Europe, peaches are harvested mainly in summer (June–August), with large-scale production in Spain, Italy, and Greece. Spain is among the EU’s leading exporters of peaches2.
Usage
Enjoyed fresh as a snack, sliced into fruit salads, blended in smoothies, or used in desserts. Peaches also pair well with yoghurt and cereals as a naturally sweet topping.
Peaches originated in China more than 4,000 years ago and were introduced to Europe via the Silk Road. The ancient Romans called them “malum persicum”(“Persian apple”), which is the origin of many modern names such as pêche (French), pesca (Italian/Spanish), and Pfirsich (German)3.
In Velventos, Greece, peaches are celebrated each summer with a local Peach Festival (Γιορτή Ροδάκινου), combining harvest traditions with cultural events – showing how fruit can be both food and part of community identity4.
Sources:
1. USDA FoodData Central – Peaches, raw; EFSA EU Register of Nutrition and Health Claims
2. Eurostat Fruit Production Data 2022; FAO Crop Statistics
3. Encyclopedia Britannica – Peach, 2021
4. ASEPOP Velventou website; Greek local media reports, 2023