Why Choose Cherries?
Fast Facts About The Underleveraged “Super Fruit”
Cherries have a powerful nutrient profile.
- Cherries are rich in antioxidants, containing similar amounts as blueberries and other berries. They are also one of the few known, researched sources of the antioxidant melatonin. (USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at
Tufts University; Brunswick Laboratory, Wareham, Mass; Burkhardt S, et al. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry; 2001.)
Cherries’ appealing red color is a cue for good health.
- The rich red color comes from powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins. Studies suggest anthocyanins may reduce risk factors for heart disease and inflammation. (Andersen, O.M. Flavonoids: Chemistry, Biochemistry and Applications. CRC Press, Boca Raton FL 2006.)
Cherries are on trend.
- QSR magazine (April 2007) forecast cherries a next "it" ingredient.
- Restaurant Business (March 2008) cites cherries as a healthy “must have” ingredient on today’s menu.
- “Cherries are a Super Fruit with vast potential outside of the pie.” (Food Processing, April 2008).
Cherries are available year-round in dried, frozen and juice forms.
- Because of their versatility, cherries are well-suited for a variety of foods, from beverages to snack options to prepared entrees.
- Cherries are an easy swap for other fruits and berries.
Consumers love the sweet/ tart taste of cherries.
- A 2006 consumer research study revealed that nearly twice as many consumers prefer the taste of cherries (62%) compared to blueberries (online survey of 1556 respondents, Sept. 2006).
- Focus groups revealed broad appeal across ages and taste preferences (Dec. 2007).
Cherries are supported by a powerful marketing campaign to increase consumer demand.
- Since 2007, cherries have been making headlines as one of today’s emerging “Super Fruits” in top media including CNN, FOX Business News, NBC’s Today Show, The New York Times and more!
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