If ever a food item has been associated with a phrase in a spectacularly successful piece of product placement, it is animated character Wallace’s exclamation of “cracking cheese lad!” in association with Wensleydale, a brand that was struggling until Nick Park introduced it to a whole new audience.

However, those who think Wensleydale is indeed “cracking” might not just focus on the traditional white crumbly fromage that has been made for centuries. There is also the modern version that pioneered the idea of embedding fruit in cheese, starting with cranberries after an American farmer with a large surplus got in touch. Invented in 1996, it has proved highly popular.

However, there is more to them than just a modern way of enjoying cheese, which is why buying bulk dried cranberries is a great idea. Cranberries are not just one way of getting your five a day; these are superfoods with some outstanding health benefits.

Not only are they loaded with vitamin C and fibre, but they are full of powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatories. This can boost brain power and bolster the immune system. They also include emulsifiers that break down fat, can increase good cholesterol (which helps your body flush out bad cholesterol) and can even fight disease ranging from tooth decay to urinary tract infections.

Cranberries can be consumed in all sorts of ways, even if it’s obvious what Wallace would go for. Cranberry juice is a popular drink, although there are more benefits to be had from eating the fruit. Cranberry sauce will also be a rare healthy addition to the calorie bomb that is Christmas dinner.

Recipes based around the fruit can also include puddings, such as Levi Roots’ lime and cranberry pudding.

So not only are cranberries amazingly good for your health, but you don’t have to “go somewhere where there’s cheese” to enjoy them.