Unsweetened Dried Cherries

Unsweetened dried cherries are cherries that have had most of their water removed through drying. This process concentrates their natural flavor and sweetness. They are often produced by air-drying or freeze-drying fresh cherries.

Dried cherries are used to add a chewy texture and tart-sweet flavor to foods. They are commonly found in baked goods like muffins and scones, as well as in trail mixes, granola bars, and as a topping for yogurt and cereal. Their concentrated flavor also makes them a popular addition to savory dishes, such as salads and stuffings.

Unsweetened dried cherries are considered a fruit and are a source of fiber and antioxidants. The FDA does not specifically regulate unsweetened dried cherries as an additive. While generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for consumption as a food ingredient, like all foods, excessive intake of any single food item is not recommended. Regulatory bodies like EFSA have evaluated dried fruits in general, but specific evaluations for unsweetened dried cherries as a standalone ingredient are not commonly cited.