Juice, tart cherry, from concentrate, shelf-stable

Juice, tart cherry, from concentrate, shelf‑stable is a fruit beverage made by reconstituting concentrated juice of the tart cherry (Prunus cerasus)—commonly the Montmorency cultivar—with water to its original strength before packaging. While fresh tart cherries are a seasonal crop primarily harvested in the summer in U.S. states like Michigan, Utah, and New York, processing them into juice concentrate allows for year‑round availability. (WebMD)0search13 The production process typically begins with ripe sour cherries that are washed, crushed, and pressed to extract juice. This juice is then gently heated and concentrated by removing water under controlled conditions, retaining much of the original phytonutrient profile including anthocyanins and flavonoids, which contribute to the deep red color and distinctive tart taste. (kingorchards.com) Shelf‑stable versions are thermally processed and sealed in aseptic containers—often bottles, cartons, or cans—to ensure microbial safety and extend shelf life without refrigeration prior to opening. Unlike fresh cherry juice, which must be refrigerated and consumed quickly, shelf‑stable concentrate‑based juice can sit at room temperature until opened, making it convenient for retailers and consumers. Tart cherry juice differs from sweet cherry (Prunus avium) juice by its sharper, tangier flavor and higher concentration of certain phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, phenolic acids, and melatonin precursors. These compounds are under investigation for potential health effects including antioxidant, anti‑inflammatory, and sleep‑related benefits. (科学直接 While the raw fruit provides fiber and a range of vitamins, the juice form—especially from concentrate—offers convenience at the expense of fiber but remains rich in bioactive plant compounds. Varieties on the market include 100% juice with no added sugar and blends where water is added to concentrate to reach a standardized flavor. Some manufacturers opt for organic certification or non‑GMO sourcing, which caters to consumer preferences for cleaner labels. Although all tart cherry juices share similar nutrient profiles, those not from concentrate may retain marginally higher levels of delicate antioxidants, while concentrate products are prized for their extended shelf life and consistent flavor.

The nutrition profile of tart cherry juice from concentrate reflects its primary composition of water and natural carbohydrates. In an 8 fl oz (240 ml) serving, there are approximately 140 calories, almost entirely from carbohydrates (~34 g), of which 28–30 g are natural sugars derived from fructose and glucose concentrated from the fruit. (Eat This Much These sugars offer quick energy but mean that portion size and total daily carbohydrate intake should be considered, especially for those managing blood glucose. Unlike whole cherries, juice lacks significant dietary fiber because the juicing and concentration processes remove most insoluble and soluble fibers. Protein and fat content are negligible, with protein under 1 gram and fat virtually zero. Micronutrient content varies by brand and concentration technique, but typical values include potassium (~170 mg per 100 g)—a mineral essential for muscle, nerve, and fluid balance—along with trace amounts of calcium (~16 mg), iron (~0.2 mg), and folate (~4.7 mcg) as recorded in the USDA database for this specific shelf‑stable concentrate product (FDC ID: 2727589). Vitamins like vitamin C can be present in small amounts in some products but may be reduced through processing and storage. (WebMD)0search4 While this juice is not a significant source of protein, fiber, or healthy fats, it provides plant compounds like anthocyanins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids that are not captured in basic nutrition analyses but contribute to biological activity. These compounds act as antioxidants that can neutralize free radicals and modulate inflammatory pathways. (科学直接 Because it contains minimal micronutrients compared to whole cherries, pairing juice with nutrient‑rich foods—such as nuts, seeds, or leafy greens—can help balance meals. Compared to other fruit juices, tart cherry juice from concentrate is similar in calories and sugar to cranberry or grape juices but stands out for its unique phytonutrient profile. Its high carbohydrate content means it can be a quick source of energy but may not be suitable for low‑carb diets without careful portion control.

Emerging evidence suggests that tart cherry juice may provide several health benefits beyond basic nutrition, largely attributed to its high levels of anthocyanins and other polyphenolic compounds. These phytochemicals exhibit antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory properties that have been investigated in human and clinical studies. 1. Antioxidant Effects: Multiple trials have shown tart cherry juice consumption can reduce markers of oxidative stress. While older studies demonstrated increased capacity to resist oxidative damage in older adults following tart cherry juice intake, these effects are thought to stem from anthocyanin‑rich compounds that scavenge free radicals. (jn.nutrition.org) 2. Anti‑Inflammatory Effects: Systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials report that tart cherry intake can significantly reduce C‑reactive protein (CRP)—a key biomarker of inflammation associated with cardiovascular risk. (科学直接 Although effects on IL‑6 and TNF‑α are mixed, the consistent CRP reduction highlights an anti‑inflammatory benefit. 3. Exercise Recovery and Muscle Soreness: Athletes and active adults often use tart cherry juice to support post‑exercise recovery. Its antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory actions may reduce muscle soreness and speed recovery following intense exercise, though dosage and timing can influence outcomes. (WebMD) 4. Sleep Support: Tart cherries naturally contain melatonin and tryptophan precursors, compounds involved in sleep regulation. Some trials show modest improvements in sleep duration and efficiency when juice is consumed in the evening, particularly in individuals with mild sleep disturbances. (WebMD) 5. Uric Acid and Gout Symptoms: Anecdotal and preliminary clinical evidence suggests that incorporating tart cherries into the diet may reduce the frequency of gout flare‑ups and modestly lower serum uric acid, although larger and more rigorous studies are needed. (WebMD) 6. Cardiometabolic Markers: Small clinical trials suggest daily tart cherry consumption can improve inflammatory and lipid profiles in older adults, lowering systolic blood pressure and LDL cholesterol, potentially contributing to cardiovascular support. (WebMD)(MDPI) While these benefits are promising, most studies involve small sample sizes or short durations, and results vary based on juice form, concentration, and population. Therefore, while strong evidence supports antioxidant and inflammatory benefits, evidence for disease prevention or treatment remains moderate to preliminary.

Source: USDA FoodData Central (FDC ID: 2727589)