Is Maraschino Cherries With Stems Keto?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, looking at the ingredient list for standard Maraschino Cherries With Stems reveals a process that strips away the natural fruit and replaces it with a sugary, chemical cocktail. The primary issue for the keto diet begins immediately with the sweeteners.

The first red flag is the presence of both corn syrup and high fructose corn syrup (HFCS). These are pure forms of sugar that have a high glycemic index, meaning they cause an immediate spike in blood glucose and insulin levels. On keto, we aim to keep net carbs very low (typically under 20-50g per day), and these syrups add significant carbs with zero fiber to offset them.

Secondly, the texture and longevity of these cherries are maintained by potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate. While these preservatives are generally recognized as safe, they are used here to sustain a product that has been heavily processed. The inclusion of sulfur dioxide is also notable; it acts as a preservative to maintain the red color and prevent spoilage, but it can be an irritant for those with sensitivities.

Finally, the vibrant red hue isn't natural; it comes from FD&C Red #40. This artificial colorant is controversial in health circles and is derived from petroleum sources. While not a carbohydrate, it indicates a highly ultra-processed food item that lacks the micronutrients found in whole, natural cherries.

Nutritional Value

When analyzing the nutritional profile of Maraschino Cherries With Stems, the numbers tell a grim story for anyone tracking macros. A standard serving (about a handful or roughly 40g) typically contains between 20 to 25 grams of carbohydrates. Since these cherries have virtually no dietary fiber, the net carb count is nearly identical to the total carb count.

To put this in perspective, eating just a few of these cherries could consume your entire daily carbohydrate allowance on a strict keto diet. Furthermore, because the sugar is in liquid form (syrup), it absorbs rapidly. The fat content is negligible, and the protein is non-existent. Therefore, these cherries provide 'empty calories'—energy without satiety or nutritional benefit. They do not fit the limits of a ketogenic diet, nor do they support general health goals like blood sugar management.