Abstract:

Melatonin is more abundant in cherry than in other fruits, and regular consumption of cherry fruits or their
products may enhance human health by increasing endogenous melatonin level. This review summarizes the effect of fruit
ripening degree, harvest time and processing on melatonin levels and highlights the current progress made in China and
abroad in the quantitative analysis and nutritional functions of melatonin. Future research trends are also proposed. This
paper is expected to provide a useful reference for the development and utilization of melatonin from cherry.

Key words: cherry, melatonin, analytical method, nutritional function