Does Sour Cherry Spread contain dairy or gluten?

No, this spread is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free. It does not contain milk, butter, wheat, or any gluten-containing grains, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or celiac disease.

Is Sour Cherry Spread good for weight loss?

While it is fat-free, it is high in sugar and calories relative to its serving size. It is not specifically designed for weight loss and should be used sparingly.

Where can I buy Sour Cherry Spread?

You can find Sour Cherry Spread in the jam and jelly aisle of most major supermarkets (like Walmart, Kroger, Safeway) and online through retailers like Amazon.

Is Sour Cherry Spread safe for kids?

Yes, it is generally safe for children. However, due to the high sugar content, it should be given in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Is Sour Cherry Spread Halal?

Yes, Sour Cherry Spread is Halal. Based on a detailed analysis of its standard ingredients—sour cherries, cane sugar, fruit pectin, and citric acid—this product is free from any Haram components. It is a fruit-based spread that aligns perfectly with Halal dietary guidelines.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a food product is Halal, we look for specific red flags: alcohol, pork derivatives, non-Halal animal by-products, and certain controversial additives. For this Sour Cherry Spread, the ingredient list is refreshingly straightforward and clean.

The primary ingredient is Sour Cherries. As a fruit, they are inherently Halal. They provide the tart flavor and the bulk of the product's nutritional value. There are no processing agents used here that would compromise the fruit's Halal status.

Cane Sugar is the standard sweetener used. In the food industry, there is sometimes a concern regarding bone char filtration in white sugar. However, cane sugar is generally considered Halal, and in the context of a fruit spread, it is a safe and acceptable ingredient. It is simply used to balance the natural tartness of the cherries.

The texturizing agent is Fruit Pectin. This is a polysaccharide derived from fruit cell walls (like apples or citrus). It is a natural vegetarian gelling agent and is completely Halal. Finally, Citric Acid is used as an acidity regulator. It is a weak organic acid found naturally in citrus fruits and is used to preserve the spread and enhance its flavor. It is synthesized commercially from mold fermentation, but it is chemically identical to the natural acid and is universally accepted as Halal.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, a fruit spread like this is primarily a source of carbohydrates, specifically sugars. The calorie content will be moderate, coming almost entirely from the cherries and the added cane sugar. A typical serving of one tablespoon (around 20g) will likely contain between 40-60 calories.

The sugar content is the most significant nutritional factor. While the cherries provide natural fruit sugars, the added cane sugar increases the total. This makes it a food to be consumed in moderation, especially for those monitoring their sugar intake for weight management or blood sugar control. However, it fits within standard dietary limits when used as a condiment rather than a main course. The fat content is virtually zero, making it a fat-free option.