Amarena Cherries
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What it is
Amarena cherries are a specific variety of dark, sour cherry, native to Italy. They are typically preserved in a syrup, often flavored with almond extract, which gives them a distinct sweet and slightly bitter taste.
Why it's used
Manufacturers use Amarena cherries primarily for their unique flavor and color. They are often found in desserts like ice cream, gelato, cakes, and pastries, where they add a burst of fruity sweetness and a visually appealing deep red hue.
Health notes
Amarena cherries are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. They are a source of antioxidants and vitamins, though amounts are typically small in processed foods. Regulatory bodies like JECFA and EFSA have evaluated various cherry preparations, but specific evaluations for Amarena cherries as a distinct ingredient are not widely publicized. At typical consumption levels in food, they are not associated with adverse health effects.
Allergen info
Amarena cherries are not derived from any of the 9 FDA major allergens. They do not contain gluten.