The Cherry Marketing Institute, representing 385 tart cherry growers across the country, says it applauds the Food and Drug Administration for its support of tart cherries in its recently announced updated “healthy” ruling.
The institute said the revised FDA criteria for the “healthy” label helps consumers easily identify foods that are particularly useful as the foundation of a diet that is consistent with dietary recommendations. Manufacturers can voluntarily use the claim on a food package if the product meets the updated criteria, according to these new guidelines.
CMI said the FDA’s full report underscores the role of tart cherry and cranberry products in fostering a healthy dietary pattern.
“We recognize that cranberry and tart cherry products, because of their nutrient composition, are particularly useful in building a healthy dietary pattern,” the ruling notes in the full report.
The overall ruling specifically targets added sugars in foods, CMI said, adding that while tart cherries are uniquely nutrient-dense, they also have a low intrinsic sugar content and as a result are not naturally sweet. Producers add sugar to dried tart cherries for balance and to bring out their flavor.
CMI said the report acknowledges this necessity, permitting the “healthy” claim for tart cherries as long as the total sugar content aligns with comparable items like unsweetened raisins or 100% grape juice.
The U.S. tart cherry industry has been working in tandem with the cranberry industry for this ruling since 2022, requesting bipartisan support for this position, according to a news release.
CMI said the U.S. tart cherry industry is proud to see thecollaborative effort yield results, ensuring consumers can make informed choices about the nutritious foods they include in their diets.
