Can cherries with an alcoholic smell still be eaten?

Nov 10, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yu Yongchao

Introduction

In general, cherries with an alcoholic smell are not recommended for consumption. When selecting cherries, prioritize those with bright, shiny skin, firm flesh, and a natural fruity aroma; avoid purchasing cherries with unusual odors or soft, mushy textures. After purchase, cherries should be promptly refrigerated and stored for a limited time to reduce the likelihood of fermentation and spoilage. If cherries develop an alcoholic smell, they should not be eaten even if there is no obvious sign of decay.

Generally, cherries with an alcoholic smell are not recommended for consumption. The detailed explanation is as follows:

An alcoholic odor in cherries usually results from prolonged storage or excessively high storage temperatures, which cause microorganisms to break down and ferment the sugars in the fruit, producing alcohol. This fermentation process not only alters the original flavor of the cherries but may also lead to softening, stickiness, and even the growth of harmful bacteria in the flesh. Consuming such cherries may irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa, causing discomfort such as abdominal pain and diarrhea. If harmful bacteria have multiplied significantly, it could further burden the body and negatively affect health; therefore, they should not be eaten.

When selecting cherries, prioritize those with bright, shiny skin, firm flesh, and a natural fruity aroma. Avoid purchasing cherries with unusual odors or soft, mushy textures. After purchase, store them promptly in the refrigerator, control the storage duration, and minimize the risk of fermentation and spoilage. If cherries develop an alcoholic smell—even if there is no obvious sign of rotting—they should be discarded immediately and not consumed to ensure food safety.

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In general, it is safe to eat crab after consuming cherries, but doing so in large amounts is not recommended. It's important to control the total intake of both foods to avoid overburdening the digestive system. Crabs should be thoroughly cooked, and cherries must be washed well to remove any residual bacteria or impurities. Individuals with weak gastrointestinal function or those prone to diarrhea should consume these foods at least half an hour to one hour apart to minimize irritation.

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