Blueberry Boost Accelerator Continues to Grow New Innovators in Food

Research shows nearly all consumers (93%) consider blueberries a “healthy” food, but almost six in 10 say they would like to see more exciting and adventurous ways to enjoy blueberries. That combination of consumer trust and demand for innovation creates fertile ground for entrepreneurs developing the next generation of food and beverage products. That opportunity is reflected in the companies selected for the second annual Blueberry Boost Accelerator, recently announced by the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) in partnership with innovation advisory firm VentureFuel.

The cohort demonstrates how entrepreneurs move blueberries beyond the produce aisle and freezer case into products that span multiple high-growth consumer categories, from protein-rich pantry staples and better-for-you confectionery to children’s beverages and premium spirits.

The 2026 cohort reflects several of the strongest trends shaping food today, according to the USHBC. Here is a snapshot of where food innovation is heading:

• Functional Foods: Jam Packd Jams Blueberries (Edina, MN) Husband-and-wife team and co-founders Brian and Michelle Platt’s functional jams are packed with collagen, protein, prebiotic fiber, superfoods and no added sugar. A 2026 NEXTY Award Finalist for innovation in functional foods at Natural Products Expo West, blueberry is their brightest, most fruit-forward flavor.
• Healthier Treats: Dr. John’s Healthy Sweets Blueberry Fruit Snacks (Comstock Park, MI) Dr. John’s was the first to craft a delicious sugar-free lollipop. Now, they are taking the company’s love of culinary science and confectionery art even further by creating a new fruit-based, tooth-friendly snack made with all-natural ingredients, and fortified with important nutrients. Blueberry will be the first flavor to launch their new fruit snack line. They are represented by VP of R&D/FSQA Kelly Glynn.
• Clean-Label Beverages: Oodles of Doodles Blueberry (New York, NY) Co-Founder and CEO Alisha Eason is reinventing children’s hydration with clean-label, fruit-flavored drinks. The newest flavor, blueberry, will launch later this year as a ready-to-drink beverage in both sparkling and still formats, as well as hydration sticks and vitamin-fiber juice boxes.
• Premium Beverage Innovation: Blue Rascal Distillery Blueberry Brandies (Hammonton, NJ) Co-Owner Kelly Perone showcases blueberries in premium brandy, liqueurs and craft spirits inspired by New Jersey’s rich blueberry-growing heritage, demonstrating the ingredient’s versatility beyond traditional food categories.

“Food innovation today isn’t just about creating something new, it’s about helping consumers eat better without asking them to compromise on convenience, flavor or experience,” says Kevin Hamilton, USHBC VP of global marketing and communications. “Blueberries have long been recognized for their health and wellness benefits, and this year’s cohort demonstrates their incredible versatility as an ingredient that can inspire entirely new products, consumption occasions and markets.”

To learn more about the Blueberry Boost Accelerator, visit blueberryboostaccelerator.com.