Georgia Peach Cobbler Factory Forced to Switch to Apple Cobbler Due to Peach Shortage
Midsummer is typically the peak of juicy peach season in the state of Georgia, but this year, the Peach Cobbler Factory in Atlanta had to make a drastic change. The factory ran out of peaches and was forced to pivot to apple cobbler instead.
The Peach State suffered a devastating blow to its peach crop, losing over 90% of this year’s harvest. A February heat wave followed by two late-spring frosts proved to be a triple-whammy for the peach varieties specifically bred to withstand different weather scenarios. As a result, the prices of peaches skyrocketed, and many consumers turned to California peaches, much to the dismay of Georgians.
The impact of this peach shortage goes beyond just the loss of employment and the negative effects on the state’s economy. Peaches hold a special place in the hearts of Georgians. It is the state fruit, and its name can be found on numerous state roads. The Georgia state quarter even features a peach on its flip side. The shortage of peaches has left many feeling embarrassed and longing for the days when Georgia was known for its abundant peach harvest.
Some businesses and individuals refuse to buy peaches from any other state. Henryk Kumar, the director of operations at Georgia ice cream shops Butter & Cream, stated that buying peaches from another state is completely out of the question for him. Despite the shortage, Butter & Cream introduced their Peaches & Cream and Georgia Peach Sorbet flavors on July 1, but they predict running out before the end of the month.
Farmers and agricultural groups in Georgia have expressed their shock at the devastation caused to this year’s peach crop. Sean Lennon, a farmer and peach grower at Fitzgerald Farms in Woodbury, Ga, shared that an older farmer he spoke to said the last time he saw a peach crop this bad was in 1955. The financial loss is significant, but the impact goes beyond that for the state.
The shortage has forced farmers like Lennon to lay off workers, including migrant workers who come to the US through the H2-A Visa program. Lack of work has resulted in sending these workers back to Mexico earlier than planned, disrupting their livelihoods and support for their families.
The scarcity of Georgia peaches has led to a surge in prices, with wholesale prices reaching around $40 per box, compared to the usual $17-$20. Some buyers have reported prices as high as $60 per box wholesale. However, most Georgia farmers have very little fruit to sell.
Restaurants that remain loyal to the Georgia staple are also facing supply issues. Filipino restaurant Kamayan has decided to combat the shortage by offering their peach lumpias, a fruit-filled spring roll, only on weekends instead of daily. Owner Mira Orino stated that she would remove the peach lumpias from the menu before resorting to canned or out-of-state peaches. However, due to the high local prices, they are not making much profit from the ones they do sell.
Peaches have a short window of peak flavor, as famously depicted in a 1995 Seinfeld episode where the character Kramer desperately searches for “Mackinaw Peaches,” which are supposedly available only two weeks a year. The origin of these peaches is a subject of debate on the internet, with various theories suggesting they come from Michigan, Wisconsin, Canada, or are simply mythical.
The shortage of peaches has forced many restaurants in Georgia to turn to other sources. Aunt Evelyn’s Peach Cobbler, a four-bakery chain in Georgia, had to purchase California peaches to meet the demand. California is the leading grower of peaches in the US, followed by South Carolina and then Georgia, which typically produces around 130 million peaches annually.
Georgia growers, restaurateurs, and agricultural groups are uncertain about what the climate will do to next year’s crop. They are hoping that this year’s peach shortage is a once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon. In the meantime, Georgia peaches are selling like the Seinfeld-ian Mackinaw, a delicacy described by Kramer as “a miracle of nature, like the Aurora Borealis.”
How are farmers and businesses in Georgia working to revive the peach industry after the shortage
Milies. Additionally, businesses that rely on Georgia peaches, like the Peach Cobbler Factory, have been left with no choice but to adapt to the scarce supply.
The factory, known for its delicious peach cobblers, had to make a difficult decision. With peaches in short supply, they had to find an alternative that could satisfy their loyal customers. After careful consideration, they decided to switch to apple cobbler, using locally sourced apples as a substitute for the beloved peach.
This decision was not made lightly. The Peach Cobbler Factory understood the disappointment that would come from not being able to offer their signature peach cobbler during peak peach season. However, they also recognized the importance of adapting to the circumstances and providing a quality product to their customers.
While apple cobbler may not be the same as Georgia peach cobbler, the Peach Cobbler Factory has received positive feedback on their new creation. Customers have praised the apple cobbler for its delicious taste and the nostalgic feeling it evokes.
Despite the pivot, the impact of the peach shortage is still deeply felt throughout the state. The loss of jobs, the economic repercussions, and the sentimental attachment to Georgia peaches have all contributed to a sense of loss and longing. Many Georgians are eagerly awaiting the next peach season, hoping for a full recovery and a return to the state’s peach-saturated glory.
In the meantime, businesses like Butter & Cream continue to support local farmers and embrace the spirit of Georgia by featuring peach-inspired flavors. Even though they anticipate running out of their limited supply, they are committed to showcasing the state’s agricultural heritage and creativity.
Farmers, like Sean Lennon, are determined to bounce back from this devastating year and rebuild the peach industry in Georgia. They are exploring new methods and technologies to mitigate the impact of extreme weather conditions on future crops. Their perseverance and dedication are crucial in ensuring the revival of Georgia’s peach industry.
While the forced switch from peach to apple cobbler is a temporary solution, it highlights the resilience and adaptability of Georgia businesses. The Peach Cobbler Factory and others are determined to make the best of a challenging situation and continue providing delicious treats to their customers.
As Georgians eagerly await the return of a bountiful peach crop, they hold onto their love and pride for their state fruit. The switch to apple may have been a necessary adjustment, but the taste of Georgia peaches is irreplaceable.
It’s disheartening to see Georgia’s peach crop take such a devastating hit. Not only does this bring a blow to the state’s rich tradition, but it also has severe consequences for the local economy. Let’s hope for a swift recovery and support our farmers during these difficult times.
It’s heartbreaking to see Georgia’s peach crop devastated, as it not only deals a blow to a cherished tradition but also poses significant economic consequences. Let’s hope for speedy recovery and support our local farmers in getting back on their feet.