Cherry Postcard

CHERRIES Homegrown and long a part of America’s history, cherries are truly an American favourite. Technically known as Prunus cerasus, tart cherries’ nutrition, unique flavour and naturally functional properties are right on target with today’s new food and beverage trends. Today’s Red Hot Super Fruit After years in the shadow of other fruit, tart cherries are emerging as a major Super Fruit. A substantial and growing body of scientific research has linked tart cherries to anti-inflammatory benefits, reduced pain from gout and arthritis and an extensive list of heart health benefits. Recent studies even suggest tart cherries can help reduce post-exercise muscle and joint pain. Available dried, frozen and in juice and concentrate, tart cherries contain a unique package of antioxidants and beneficial phytonutrients, including anthocyanins – the pigments that give cherries their bright red colour. There are now more than 50 studies specifically on tart cherries and scientists continue to uncover new and important benefits of this fruit.