Seattle's Metropolitan Market Celebrates 17th Annual Peach-O-Rama

SEATTLE, Aug. 6, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- For the 17th year, Metropolitan Market, Seattle's premier independent grocery store, is bringing measurably sweeter peaches directly from two orchards in Washington and California.  Just like the peaches of yesteryear, the juice runs down the chin and off the elbow when eating Peach-O-Rama peaches out of hand.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130806/SF59000)

The quest to find the sweetest peach began in 1995 when CEO Terry Halverson and team were determined to improve the quality of the peaches they sold in their stores.  Halverson explains, "Jon Rowley, who teamed with us on our on Copper River Salmon, was ready to make it happen". It took two years and 2000 miles through West Coast peach country to locate the great peaches and the right growers. Many innovations ensued including a single layer peach box, unrefrigerated storage, special ripening procedures, and a Brix (sugar) standard among others. "We were so excited and impressed with the results of having the best peaches, we had to celebrate with customers, calling it Peach-O-Rama."

In the stores each day, Met Market produce team members measure Brix, or sugar levels, in Peach-O-Rama peaches using a refractometer. By using the handheld device and drizzling a little peach juice on the device, the produce team can immediately determine the level of sweetness.  The higher the Brix level, the more flavorful, aromatic, sweeter and juicier the peach. Metropolitan Markets' minimum Brix standard is 13 and some of the peaches measure 18 or higher. An average grocery chain often sells peaches that measure 11 on the Brix scale.

Customers will discover and taste additional peach treats at the culinary kiosks in each store. Specialty Peach-O-Rama items and preparations include Coy's Fruit Cobbler, Quinn's Peach Salsa, Grilled Peaches with Aged Balsamic Vinegar, Sautéed Peach-O-Rama Chicken, or Frog Hollow peach Chutney. Peach-0-Rama will continue through August and availability can be checked daily here.    

About Metropolitan Market

Metropolitan Market has grown to become the area's premier independent grocer. Featuring fresh, local, organic and hard-to-find items, the award-winning market transforms everyday grocery shopping into an invigorating experience. The first grocer to introduce Copper River Salmon, locally baked artisan breads and just-picked luscious strawberries from Vashon Island to the region, Metropolitan Market continues to be the first to offer the best. Visit one of the six Western Washington locations or online at www.metropolitan-market.com.

For additional information contact:

Tamara Wilson
c 206-409-6735
[email protected]
www.tamarawilson.com

SOURCE Metropolitan Market