Did you know that those cans tucked in the cupboard or chilling in the refrigerator may just be the advantage you need to help you reach your health goals? For today's health conscious and busy lifestyles, canned peaches are an ideal choice. Here are some tips and ways that canned peaches can give you an edge when it comes to making nutritious food choices: Canned peaches can be substituted for fresh peaches in recipes such as pies, crisps and cobblers-peaches should be drained and only half the sugar called for in the recipe used. Cans should be wiped off before opening to ensure that dust particles don't get into the fruit. Canned fruits will keep in the unopened can for up to two years; after being opened, the canned fruit should be put in a container and refrigerated, or frozen for up to six months. Fruits intended for canning are harvested at their peak of ripeness, when vitamin content and flavor are at their highest, and in most cases, are canned within 24 hours, locking in valuable nutrients and fresh taste. California Cling Peaches account for more than 98% of the peaches used for commercial canning as they are exceptional in their ability to retain their flavor and consistency Start your day with an energy-packed Peach Smoothie! Combine 1 (15 oz.) can of canned California peaches, 2 cups vanilla (or plain) yogurt and 8 ice cubes in a blender; cover and blend until smooth. Makes 4 nutritious servings. For Peachy Parfaits, spoon alternating layers of dry cereal, yogurt and canned California peach slices into a tall glass. Perfect for brunches or as a single serving in a plastic cup for an on-the-go meal. Canned California peaches make a spectacular topping for pancakes, waffles and French toast. Serve canned California peaches with cottage cheese or yogurt for a healthy breakfast or afternoon snack. Canned California peaches make a great addition to fruit salad. Cut peach slices, strawberries, bananas, apples, pineapple, and kiwis into chunks. Toss in a large bowl and serve. Fruit kabobs are a fun way to add canned California peaches to a meal. Kids love them as an after-school snack. Simply cut peach slices into chunks and spear onto wooden skewers. Alternate with different fruits (apples, bananas, strawberries, grapes and pineapple work well), chill and serve. Canned California peaches can also be dressed up for dinner. Drizzle a little melted butter over peach slices and lightly broil for a perfect side dish with chicken, pork, beef, or lamb. Serve canned California peach slices over ice cream or frozen yogurt for a special sweet treat. Canned California peach slices make a delicious filling in any crisp, pie, turnover or tart recipe. For a quick and easy peach sorbet, place two cans of peaches in the freezer overnight. Briefly run the cans under hot water to loosen the contents. Dice into 1" cubes and put in a food processor and pulse until creamy. Serve immediately or freeze for later use. If desired, garnish with a sprig of mint. Sliced, canned California peaches can be combined with greens and walnuts in a salad, along with a dressing of one cup purëed peaches, and two tablespoons each of white vinegar and oil. Canned California peaches are excellent with main dishes as well. Peach halves can be grilled on the barbecue for a couple of minutes on each side and served with grilled meats, or canned peaches can be purëed and used as a sauce.