For the Trade

Cherries are emerging at today's newest "Super Fruit." A growing body of scientific research shows that tart cherries – most commonly enjoyed as dried and frozen cherries or cherry juice – have among the highest levels of powerful antioxidants compared to other fruits.

As demand grows for "good-for-you" products that provide both health and taste, cherries offer limitless possibilities when it comes to product development and opportunities to increase profits.

Because tart cherries are available year-round, they are an extremely versatile, healthy ingredient choice for food manufacturers and food service operators. In fact, many food industry leaders are already swapping cherries for other common fruits like blueberries in their products and menus.

Retail grocers will also find adding tart cherry products to their shelves will lead to increased sales and revenues.

Why? Because consumers love cherries. A recent survey* found that more than half (52%) of the respondents believe that blueberries have the most antioxidants. Yet 7 out of 10 people said if they knew cherries were as nutritious as blueberries, they would choose cherries.

"People love the taste of cherries but they tend to think about pie and other desserts," said panel member Ellie Krieger, MS, RD, nutritionist and host of the Food Network's "Healthy Appetite" show. "They also think of cherries as just a summertime treat, but tart cherries are available every month of the year as dried, frozen or juice, so it's easy to incorporate these antioxidant powerhouses into your daily diet." Click here to view Ellie's usage tips and recipes.