# Cherry Pits, Extract (prunus Spp.)

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> Markdown URL: https://additivefacts.com/additives/cherry-pits-extract-prunus-spp.md

**Safety rating:** UNKNOWN
**CAS number:** 977038-54-2
**Category:** flavoring
**FDA GRAS:** no
**Adverse events (FDA AERS):** 0
**FDA recalls:** 0
**Last updated:** 2026-04-02

## Summary

Cherry Pits Extract is a flavoring agent derived from the pits of cherry trees (Prunus species). It is used in the food industry to impart cherry and almond-like flavor notes to various food and beverage products.

## Regulatory status

| Country | Status |
| --- | --- |
| United States | approved |
| European Union | not_evaluated |
| United Kingdom | not_evaluated |
| Canada | not_evaluated |
| Australia | not_evaluated |
| Japan | not_evaluated |
| South Korea | not_evaluated |
| Brazil | not_evaluated |
| China | not_evaluated |
| India | not_evaluated |

## Detailed analysis

## What is Cherry Pits, Extract?

Cherry Pits Extract (Prunus spp., CAS Number 977038-54-2) is a flavoring ingredient obtained from the pits of cherry trees belonging to the Prunus genus. The extract captures aromatic and flavor compounds present in cherry pit material, producing a concentrated flavoring agent used in food manufacturing. Cherry pits naturally contain compounds including benzaldehyde and other volatile organic compounds that contribute to characteristic cherry and subtle almond-like sensory properties.

## Common Uses

Cherry Pits Extract functions as a flavoring agent and adjuvant in the food industry. It is typically incorporated into:

- Beverage formulations, including soft drinks and flavored waters
- Confectionery and candy products
- Baked goods and dessert applications
- Dairy products such as yogurts and flavored milk
- Frozen desserts and ice cream products
- Flavor compounds in food processing

The extract allows manufacturers to achieve authentic cherry flavor profiles in finished products while using processed pit material that might otherwise constitute waste from cherry processing operations.

## Safety Assessment

According to FDA records, there have been zero adverse events reported in connection with Cherry Pits Extract, and zero product recalls have been associated with this ingredient. This absence of documented safety incidents suggests a favorable safety profile in current use.

However, it is important to note that this ingredient does not hold FDA GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status, meaning it has not undergone the formal GRAS notification process. GRAS status is not a legal requirement for all food ingredients; rather, it represents an optional regulatory pathway that some manufacturers pursue. The absence of GRAS designation does not inherently indicate a safety concern but rather indicates that formal GRAS documentation has not been submitted to or acknowledged by the FDA.

Cherry pits naturally contain amygdalin, a compound that can hydrolyze to produce small amounts of hydrogen cyanide. However, in flavoring extracts, the concentration of such compounds is typically minimal due to processing methods and dilution in final food products. The safety profile depends on extraction methods, concentration levels in finished products, and overall dietary exposure.

## Regulatory Status

Cherry Pits Extract is not explicitly listed on the FDA's GRAS list as a recognized safe ingredient. It operates under FDA food additive regulations, where manufacturers are responsible for ensuring safety through appropriate testing and documentation. The ingredient does not appear on any major regulatory ban lists in the United States, European Union, or other major food safety jurisdictions.

Manufacturers using this ingredient in food products are expected to comply with FDA Color Additives Status List requirements and general food additive regulations under 21 CFR Part 180. Inclusion in food products should be consistent with FDA regulations regarding naturally derived flavoring ingredients.

## Key Studies

Limited published literature specifically addresses Cherry Pits Extract as a food additive. Most relevant research examines:

- The chemistry and volatile compound composition of cherry pit extracts
- Traditional and historical uses of cherry flavoring in food applications
- General safety profiles of Prunus species-derived flavoring compounds
- Processing methods that minimize potentially hazardous compounds while preserving desired flavor characteristics

The lack of adverse event reports and recalls suggests that current usage levels and applications have not generated safety concerns in the regulatory or medical literature. However, additional safety studies or GRAS notification documentation would strengthen the evidence base for this ingredient.

## Sources

- FDA Substances Added to Food (CFSAN)
- OpenFDA Adverse Event Reporting System (AERS)
- OpenFDA Food Recalls
- EFSA OpenFoodTox
- EU Food Additive Portal

## Citation

Additive Facts. "Cherry Pits, Extract (prunus Spp.) — Safety, regulation, and evidence." https://additivefacts.com/additives/cherry-pits-extract-prunus-spp. Accessed 2026-05-19.