When Holiday Gifting, Fresh is Best

Seattle, WA, November 06, 2007 --(PR.com)-- Chukar Cherries, Washington State’s award-winning manufacturer of naturally dried and chocolate covered confections, is anticipating a sharp rise in gift sales this holiday season. Fueled by a desire for food safety and fresh ingredients, Regional Food Gifts are at the top consumers Holiday gift lists. There is a growing movement to buy local and support the environment by doing so. Buying local foods aids our domestic growers and at the same time, reduces transit pollutant emissions associated with the food industry’s world-wide distribution system.

“As more and more people are concerned with the origins of their food, it’s a great time to turn to local manufacturers where you can trust that the ingredients are pure and will naturally fuel life’s adventures,” said Pam Montgomery, Chukar Cherries CEO and Founder.

All Chukar® brand gourmet gifts are made at Chukar Cherries headquarters in Prosser Washington using small batch blending and just in time inventory methods to ensure freshness. “We make everything ourselves, which is unique for a gourmet food company.” said Montgomery. “The Pacific Northwest is blessed with orchards and fruits that are flavorful, wholesome and delicious.” Many specialty food gift companies outsource their production, often overseas, and begin manufacturing mid-summer for the holiday season. This means that many food gifts arrive in less-than-fresh condition.

All fruits used in Chukar’s treats come from local growers. “People want to know what they are eating and Chukar’s dried fruits combined with Guittard Chocolate, is the ‘Best of Nature, Best of Chocolate® and a perfect holiday food gift.” commented Montgomery.

Chukar Cherries was founded by Pam Montgomery on her family’s cherry orchard over 19 years ago. Located in Washington State, Chukar Cherries produces a wide array of pure food gifts that exemplify the regional bounty and natural flavors of the Pacific Northwest. All products are 100% Natural and Kosher KOF-K certified. Chukar Cherries has two retail locations in Washington; the Pike Place Market in Seattle, and on Wine Country Road in Prosser, the Corporate Headquarters. Visit www.chukar.com or call (800) 624-9544 for a free catalog.

###