ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES, MARASCHINO receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its **high added sugar content** and **ultra-processed nature**.
This product scores 0/100, indicating it offers minimal nutritional value.
It contains 20g of added sugar per 100g, contributing significantly to its low score.
Classified as NOVA 4, it is an ultra-processed food with many non-whole food ingredients.
Compared to generic maraschino cherries, this SKU has a similar nutritional profile.
Consider this product as an occasional garnish rather than a regular food item.
Scores -42 points above the other category average (42/100 across 979 foods).
Fiber
0g
0% of Daily Value
Protein
0g
0% of Daily Value
Added sugar
20g
40% of Daily Value
Sodium
0mg
0% of Daily Value
+
What it brings to the table
Nothing notable — but nothing harmful either.
−
What holds it back
Added sugar (20g)-25
Ultra-processed (NOVA 4)-10
Empty calories-15
Why it scores 0
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES, MARASCHINO receives a FoodScore of 0 out of 100, categorizing it as a food to avoid. The primary factor driving this low score is the significant amount of added sugar, with 20g per 100g serving. This contributes to a substantial penalty in the scoring system. The product is also classified as NOVA 4, indicating it is ultra-processed, which incurs an additional penalty due to its extensive manufacturing and the inclusion of ingredients not typically found in home kitchens. Ingredients such as high fructose corn syrup, natural and artificial flavor, and Red 40 are characteristic of ultra-processed foods. Furthermore, the product provides no protein, fiber, or beneficial micronutrients like potassium, calcium, or iron, leading to an 'empty calories' penalty. Compared to a generic unbranded maraschino cherry, this ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY product exhibits a nearly identical nutritional profile, offering negligible vitamins or minerals while being high in added sugars. There are no nutritional bonuses to offset these penalties.
Health benefits
What the nutrients in essential everyday maraschino cherries, maraschino actually do for you, grounded in established dietary science.
Provides a specific flavor accent
While not a source of essential nutrients, ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES, MARASCHINO can serve as a flavorful garnish for desserts or beverages. Its distinct sweet and slightly tart taste, along with its vibrant color, can enhance the aesthetic and sensory experience of certain dishes. This product is formulated to deliver a consistent and recognizable taste profile, making it suitable for specific culinary applications where its unique flavor is desired.
Convenient for occasional use
This product offers convenience for infrequent consumption as a topping or ingredient in small quantities. Its long shelf life, attributed to preservatives like potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate, means it can be stored for extended periods without spoilage. This makes it a practical item to keep on hand for those specific occasions when maraschino cherries are needed, without the concern of fresh fruit perishing quickly.
Fits specific dietary preferences
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES, MARASCHINO is naturally fat-free and cholesterol-free, which aligns with dietary patterns that aim to limit these macronutrients. For individuals monitoring fat intake, this product does not contribute to daily fat totals. However, it is important to consider the high added sugar content when evaluating its overall suitability for specific dietary needs, particularly for those managing blood sugar levels.
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES, MARASCHINO receives a FoodScore of 0/100 (Avoid) primarily due to its high added sugar content and ultra-processed nature.
How to eat it
Maraschino cherries are typically used as a decorative garnish for desserts, cocktails, and fruit salads. They are consumed in very small portions, often just one or two cherries per serving, due to their intense sweetness and color. They are not intended as a primary fruit source.
Use maraschino cherries sparingly as a garnish rather than a snack to manage added sugar intake.
Pair with unsweetened items like plain yogurt or oatmeal to balance the sweetness and add nutritional value.
Consider using fresh or frozen cherries as a more nutrient-dense alternative when possible for snacks or desserts.
Things to keep in mind
Consumers should be aware of the high added sugar content in ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES, MARASCHINO, which comes from both corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup. Individuals managing blood sugar levels, such as those with diabetes, should consume this product in very limited quantities. The presence of Red 40, an artificial food coloring, may be a concern for some individuals, particularly parents of children who may be sensitive to food dyes. Additionally, sulfur dioxide is included as a preservative, which can trigger asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals. The product also contains natural and artificial flavor, which contributes to its ultra-processed classification.
Is ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES, MARASCHINO healthy?
ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES, MARASCHINO is not considered a healthy food. It scores 0/100 on FoodScore due to its high added sugar content (20g per 100g), lack of essential nutrients, and classification as an ultra-processed food. It offers minimal nutritional benefits.
How does ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY compare to other maraschino cherry brands?
Compared to other common brands like Tillen Farms or generic maraschino cherries, ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES, MARASCHINO has a very similar nutritional profile. Most maraschino cherries are high in added sugars and offer little in the way of vitamins or minerals, making them nutritionally comparable across brands.
What is high fructose corn syrup, and why is it in this product?
High fructose corn syrup is a common sweetener used in many processed foods, including maraschino cherries. It provides sweetness and helps preserve the product's texture and color. Its presence contributes to the product's high added sugar content.
What is a typical serving size for these cherries?
The declared serving size for ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES, MARASCHINO is 1 cherry. Due to the high added sugar content, it is best to stick to small portions, using them as an occasional garnish rather than a regular snack.
Are there any artificial ingredients in ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES?
Yes, ESSENTIAL EVERYDAY MARASCHINO CHERRIES contain several artificial ingredients. These include 'natural and artificial flavor' and 'Red 40', an artificial food coloring. These ingredients contribute to the product's ultra-processed classification.