Local Busch’s launch cherry season with Cherryfest
Busch’s Fresh Food Market is celebrating Michigan’s cherry season with Cherryfest, running July 13 through August 9.
Premium sweet cherries from Third Coast Fruit Co. in Traverse City will be available at all 16 stores operated by the family-owned supermarket chain, alongside more than 20 cherry-inspired products including pies, sauces, brats, bread, coffee, wine and even candles.
Michigan produces around 20% of the nation’s sweet cherries, making it one of the top four sweet cherry-growing states in the US according to Leelanau.com.
Michigan No. 1 in cherries crop
The state is also the nation’s leading producer of tart Montmorency cherries — used in dried, frozen and canned products — growing 70-75% of the country’s crop.
“Michigan’s abundance of cherries deserves its own celebration, and our guests eagerly anticipate our cherry event every year, featuring the freshest, highest-quality selection from northern Michigan,” said President and CEO of Busch’s Fresh Food Market Bobby Turner.
“Busch’s unique cherry-themed products, including delicious new offerings prepared in house, are sure to become family favorites at summer gatherings.”
New cherry-themed products
Busch’s is offering a variety of new cherry-themed food products throughout the store this year. New bakery items include Michigan Cherry and Walnut Sourdough Bread and Michigan Cherry Lemon Pucker Cookies, made at Busch’s Bakehouse in Clinton.
From Busch’s Kitchen, a Cherry BBQ Chop, and Cherry BBQ Chop Meal served with Summer Seasoned Sweet Potatoes, will be introduced.
Guernsey’s Sleepy Bear Traverse City Java Ice Cream from Northville adds another Michigan-made treat to the lineup. New on the beverage menu is Pigeon Hill Tart Cherry Lemonade Cocktail produced in Muskegon.
“Busch’s is proud to support Michigan cherry farmers and our focus on locally grown and locally produced foods and beverages is an important part of our philosophy,” added Turner.
“Cherryfest is our way of recognizing and highlighting Michigan’s one-of-a-kind cherry crop and bringing one of the signature flavors of summer to our guests.”
For more information go to buschs.com.
