FOOD NEWS
Which U.S. State Produces The Most Cherries?
By Margaret McCormick
Michigan is beloved for its rich history and proximity to the Great Lakes, as well as its excellent culinary collection. Apart from its go-to eats like rectangular-shaped pizza and cream puffs filled with ice cream, Michigan is also an agricultural powerhouse, with a bounty that includes asparagus, apples, and cherries.
Michigan grows an estimated 70% of America’s tart cherries, including 201 million pounds in 2018 alone. Fans of this fruit can head to Traverse City for the National Cherry Festival in July, when cherries are ripe for the picking, to purchase a cherry pie or even its recipe.
Michigan grows an impressive 2/3 of the nation’s Montmorency tart cherries, which are regarded as "America's Superfruit” for their potent antioxidants, as well as health benefits that include better sleep and improved heart function. Through Cherry Republic, a state-wide retailer, you can purchase Michigan cherries in forms from jams and snacks to hot sauces and salsas.