1. Choose the right cherries: Begin by selecting cherries that are ripe, plump, and bright in color. They should have firm, shiny skin and fresh-looking stems.

2. Rinse the cherries: Before you eat cherries, wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt, pesticides, or bacteria. Gently rub them between your fingers while rinsing.

3. Prep and remove stems: Take hold of the cherry stem between your thumb and index finger and gently twist it to remove it from the fruit.

4. Dry the cherries: After washing and removing the stems, gently pat the cherries dry with a clean paper towel or soft cloth.

5. Examine the cherry’s exterior: Check for any blemishes or bruises that may indicate spoilage. If you find any bad spots, simply cut them away using a small knife.

6. Use your teeth to bite into the cherry: Place the cherry between your front teeth and bite down gently on the fruit to break the skin.

7. Enjoy the sweet pulp: As you bite into the cherry, savor its sweet, juicy flavor. Chew slowly, making sure not to swallow any seeds or tough parts.

8. Feel for the pit: While chewing the cherry pulp, use your tongue to locate and separate the pit from the fruit’s flesh.

9. Be mindful of other pitted fruit nearby: When eating a bowl of cherries or mixed fruit salad that contains cherries, be cautious not to accidentally chew on seeds from other fruits (e.g., grapes).

10. Split or cut cherries in half: If you’d prefer not to eat around a pit, cut or use a cherry pitter tool and simply remove it before eating.

11. Dispose of pits responsibly: Keep a small container nearby where you can place pits as you eat cherries. This ensures they’re not left scattered on plates or in bowls, which can be hazardous to others around you.

12. Store leftover cherries properly: If you have any remaining cherries after enjoying your meal, store them in a sealed container inside the refrigerator and consume within 2 to 3 days.

13. Incorporate cherries into your diet: Cherries are a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed on their own, added to salads or smoothies, or used as a topping for yogurt, ice cream, and other desserts. Step up your culinary game by including these flavorful fruits in your meals and snacks.

By following these 13 steps, you’ll be well on your way to fully enjoying cherries while minimizing the risk of accidentally swallowing pits or harming yourself in the process. Whether enjoyed as a snack or incorporated into larger dishes, cherries are a delicious and healthy addition to your diet.