Cherries

Cherries are the small, round, fleshy fruits of the cherry tree, typically red or black in color. They are stone fruits, meaning they have a single hard seed in the center, and are botanically related to plums and peaches. Cherries are harvested from trees grown in temperate climates around the world.

Manufacturers add cherries to food products primarily for their sweet-tart flavor, vibrant color, and juicy texture. They are commonly found in baked goods like cakes and pies, dairy products such as yogurt, and various preserves and snack mixes. Cherries can be used fresh, frozen, dried, or canned.

Cherries are a whole food and are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when consumed as part of a normal diet. They are considered a nutritious fruit, contributing vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. There are no known adverse effects at typical intake levels, and no specific controversies regarding cherries as a food ingredient. As a whole food, cherries are not typically evaluated by bodies like JECFA or EFSA for additive safety.