The Surprising Production of Maraschino Cherries
The bright red, perfectly round maraschino cherry we know today is a far cry from its origin. The name comes from the sour Marasca cherry of Croatia, which was traditionally brined in sea water and preserved in a maraschino liqueur. However, the modern commercial process, perfected in the United States in 1919, is much different and involves extensive processing.
- Brining and Bleaching: The process starts with light-colored cherries like Royal Ann, Gold, or Rainier. They are first soaked in a brine solution containing calcium chloride and sulfur dioxide for four to six weeks. This process bleaches the cherries, stripping them of their natural color and flavor.
- Coloring and Sweetening: After bleaching, the cherries are soaked in another solution, this time containing sugar, red food dye, and flavoring. The artificial coloring, often Red 40, gives the cherries their iconic, uniform bright red hue. They are then pitted, stemmed, and covered in a high-sugar syrup for packaging.
The High Price of Added Sugar
One of the most significant health concerns with maraschino cherries is their high added sugar content. This heavy processing means the cherries lose their natural nutritional value and are drenched in sugar and high-fructose corn syrup.
- Dental Health: The combination of high sugar and sticky texture can be detrimental to dental health, increasing the risk of cavities and tooth decay, especially with regular consumption.
- Blood Sugar Fluctuation: The high glycemic load from the added sugar can cause rapid spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, which can be problematic for those with diabetes or insulin resistance.
- Weight Gain and Metabolic Issues: Excessive intake of added sugars is a major contributor to weight gain and is linked to metabolic disorders, obesity, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular concerns.
The Risks of Artificial Additives
Beyond the sugar, maraschino cherries are filled with artificial ingredients that can pose health risks, particularly for sensitive individuals.
- Red Dye 40: This is the most common artificial dye used to color maraschinos. While approved by the FDA, Red 40 is derived from petroleum and has been linked to hyperactivity and allergic reactions in some children and sensitive individuals. Many countries outside the U.S. have banned or restricted its use.
- Benzidine Traces: The dye Red 40 may contain trace amounts of benzidine, a known carcinogen, which has been associated with a higher risk of bladder cancer from occupational exposure. The risk from dietary intake is still debated but adds to the concern over artificial dyes.
- Sulfite Sensitivity: The sulfur dioxide used in the brining process can be problematic for individuals with sulfite sensitivities, potentially triggering allergic-like symptoms.
Maraschino Cherries vs. Fresh Cherries: A Nutritional Comparison
The processing to create maraschino cherries effectively strips the natural fruit of almost all its nutritional benefits, replacing them with added sugars and artificial ingredients. The table below highlights the stark differences based on a 3.5-ounce serving.
| Feature | Maraschino Cherries | Fresh Cherries |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~266 | ~97 |
| Added Sugars | ~42 grams | 0 grams |
| Natural Antioxidants | Minimal to None (destroyed during processing) | High, especially anthocyanins |
| Fiber | ~5 grams | ~3.2 grams |
| Vitamins (e.g., Vitamin C) | Low | Good Source (13% RDI) |
Potential Side Effects of Overconsumption
Eating too many maraschino cherries can lead to several undesirable side effects beyond general health concerns.
- Gastrointestinal Distress: The high sugar content and potential sensitivity to artificial additives can cause stomach discomfort, bloating, and diarrhea in some individuals.
- Behavioral Changes: In sensitive children, consuming large amounts of artificial food dyes, particularly Red 40, has been linked to increased hyperactivity and other behavioral changes.
How to Enjoy Cherries Healthfully
To enjoy the flavor of cherries without the associated health risks of the processed version, consider these alternatives:
- Opt for Natural Cherries: Choose fresh or frozen sweet cherries. They are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, and can be used in cocktails, desserts, and as a topping in place of maraschinos.
- Make Your Own: For a healthier, natural version, make homemade maraschino-style cherries. Recipes typically use natural sweeteners and fruit juice, avoiding artificial dyes and preservatives.
- Choose Artisan Brands: Some high-quality brands, like Luxardo, produce maraschino cherries using traditional methods, preserving them in their own juice with no artificial colors or thickeners. While still high in sugar, they avoid the synthetic additives of commercial brands.
Conclusion
While the occasional maraschino cherry used as a garnish is unlikely to be harmful, consuming large quantities is not a good idea for your health. The significant processing, high added sugar, and artificial dyes make them a poor nutritional choice, especially compared to their fresh counterparts. By understanding the health risks associated with overconsumption, you can make a more informed decision and explore healthier, more natural alternatives for your desserts and drinks. For more information on the processing and risks of artificial food dyes, see the comprehensive overview by the MD Anderson Cancer Center. Ultimately, moderation is key, and opting for fresh cherries is always the best choice for your health.
