Cranberries Cranberries

Cranberries are small, tart, red berries that grow on evergreen shrubs native to North America. They are typically harvested in the fall and can be eaten fresh, dried, or juiced. Processing often involves cooking with sugar to balance their natural tartness.

Cranberries are used to add a tart, fruity flavor and vibrant red color to a variety of foods. They are commonly found in baked goods like muffins and pies, sauces, jams, and trail mixes. Dried cranberries are also popular as a snack or salad topping.

Cranberries and their extracts are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for food use. Some research suggests compounds in cranberries may help prevent certain urinary tract infections, though evidence is mixed and not conclusive. The WHO/IARC has not classified cranberries regarding carcinogenicity. Regulatory bodies like EFSA have evaluated cranberry extracts for specific health claims, but their use in general food products is not restricted.