Growing awareness of the health benefits of cherries is putting them in the frame for ‘superfruit’ status, according to Innova Market Insights, as they are increasingly used in juices and juice drink blends.
Although orange and apple still dominate globally, ahead of mango and grape, cherries featured in about seven per cent of the juice and juice drink launches recorded by the market research firm last year – up from four per cent five years previously.
“While a significant number of these launches are in the form of blends with other juices, we are increasingly seeing pure cherry juice products,” says an Innova spokesman. “This is usually occurring on a premium platform, and sometimes specifying the type of cherry, not just sour or tart, but also varieties such as Montmorency. 

Research has established that cherries, particularly sour or tart cherries, have a high antioxidant content, and that claim is increasingly being used. Newer research, focusing on potential benefits in terms of reducing inflammation, painkilling properties and improving sleep quality is being published and publicised, and may already be adding impetus to sales, as consumer awareness rises.”