The organization representing tart cherry growers has stated that a new FDA report highlights the role of tart cherries and cranberry products in promoting a healthy diet.
The Cherry Marketing Institute, which represents 385 growers of cherries across the country, congratulates the Food and Drug Administration for its support of tart cherries in the recently announced decision.
The institute stated that the FDA’s revised criteria for the “healthy” label help consumers easily identify foods particularly useful as a basis for a diet consistent with dietary recommendations. According to the new guidelines, producers can voluntarily use this label on food packaging if the product meets the updated criteria.
“We recognize that cranberry and cherry products, due to their nutritional composition, are particularly beneficial for creating a healthy dietary pattern,” reads the full report.
The overall decision specifically addresses added sugars in foods, CMI stated, adding that tart cherries, while being particularly rich in nutrients, also have a naturally low content of sugars and are consequently not naturally sweet. Producers add sugar to dried cherries to balance and enhance their flavor.
CMI stated that the report acknowledges this necessity, allowing the “healthy” label for tart cherries provided the total sugar content aligns with similar products such as unsweetened raisins or 100% grape juice..
Read the full article: The Packer
Image: SL Fruit Service
12 Nov 2024
In the 2024/25 season, we are observing much higher fertility than seen from 2018 to 2023, which may lead to an abundant bloom. This is compounded by the fact that the potential size or caliber of the fruit is limited from the outset due to the increased number of flowers on the
28 Dec 2023
On 20 December in the area of Río Claro, in the region of Maule, a trial of the new varieties Sweet Saretta® and Sweet Stephany® was visited with fruits close to harvest, which showed a size of around 30 mm and soluble solids around 20°brix.
22 Aug 2025
Little Cherry Disease (LCD) is damaging cherry orchards across Washington State, with growers reporting severe losses. Tree removals and bitter, undersized fruit are symptoms of this threat—comparable to citrus greening (HLB) in Florida’s citrus industry.
22 Aug 2025
In Puglia, research on organic orchards highlights how compost and organic fertilizers boost yield, improve soil health, and enhance plant resilience. A sustainable approach that supports Mediterranean organic farming while delivering environmental and agronomic benefits.
