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Tag: U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

  • First-Ever Blueberry Boost Accelerator Seeks Next Generation of Food and Consumer Product Innovation

    The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council(USHBC), in partnership with VentureFuel, today announced the launch of the Blueberry Boost Accelerator — a new program designed to discover and support emerging startups that are redefining the future of blueberries. Applications are now open and will be reviewed on a rolling basis through July 11, 2025, at 11:59 pm PT.

    The nine-week hybrid accelerator program will connect early-stage, revenue-generating companies of products using blueberries as a prominent ingredient with top blueberry, food and Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry leaders to fast-track growth through expert mentorship, tailored commercialization support and strategic guidance. Participants will receive professional brand assets like video commercials and sales materials; gain media exposure; and connect with buyers, investors and innovation leaders. Startups will refine their pitch with 1:1 support and showcase their product at The Blueberry Convention, Oct. 8-10 in Seattle, where the grand prize winner will receive $20,000 and the runner-up will win $10,000. To be eligible, companies must have a safe, working product prototype that has been reviewed under USDA oversight.

    “USHBC’s vision is to make blueberries the world’s favorite fruit by fueling demand through innovation, partnerships and research,” said Kasey Cronquist, president of USHBC. “Blueberries are packed with possibilities — from health and nutrition to snacking, culinary creativity, functional ingredients and beyond. This program is about uncovering the next generation of ideas that will help blueberries earn a larger role in consumers’ everyday lives.”

    The Blueberry Boost Accelerator is seeking startups of CPG products across a wide range of categories, including but not limited to:

    • Snacks
    • Frozen
    • Beverages (including alcoholic options)
    • Confectionery
    • Personal care items (e.g., skincare, cosmetics)
    • Wellness/performance
    • Ready-to-eat meals
    • Sauces and dressings
    • Pet products

    Interested entrepreneurs are invited to RSVP for a virtual information session on June 25 at 12 p.m. ET to learn more about the program, areas of interest and the application process.

    “Blueberries are beloved by consumers for their taste and health benefits, yet there is so much untapped potential when it comes to new formats, uses, and applications,” said Fred Schonenberg, founder and CEO of VentureFuel. “Our accelerator connects the best startups working with blueberries with industry leaders and commercial opportunities to fast-track their innovations and unlock new growth opportunities for the category.”

    The Blueberry Boost Accelerator underscores USHBC’s commitment to leadership in the food system through innovation. By investing in new ideas, technology and entrepreneurs, USHBC continues to unite stakeholders to strengthen the industry’s global competitiveness.

    For more information or to apply, visit blueberryboostaccelerator.com. For more resources on using blueberries as an ingredient or to find supplier, visit foodprofessionals.blueberry.org.

    About the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council
    Established in 2000, The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) is a federal agriculture research and promotion program with independent oversight from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). USHBC represents blueberry growers and packers in North and South America who market their blueberries in the United States and overseas, and works to promote the growth and well-being of the entire blueberry industry. USHBC was established by blueberry growers and currently has 2,500 growers, packers, exporters and importers. USHBC is committed to providing blueberries that are grown, harvested, packed and shipped in clean, safe environments. Learn more at ushbc.blueberry.org and blueberry.org.

    About VentureFuel
    VentureFuel is an independent innovation advisory firm that helps the world’s best organizations commercialize innovation to ignite change by working with startups. Its innovation programs help enterprise organizations learn, test, build and invest in emerging technology to solve their biggest problems today and unlock new sources of growth. VentureFuel provides organizations like Hershey’s, Comcast, Dick’s Sporting Goods, AARP Foundation and the State of California the tools to drive transformative change with less risk, more speed, and greater proximity to the consumer than traditional innovation models. Learn more at venturefuel.net, LinkedIn, X, and Instagram, and listen to The VentureFuel Visionaries podcast wherever you get your podcasts.

  • 2025 Blueberry MRL Memo and Guidance Now Available


    The 2025 International Blueberry Maximum Residue Levels (MRL) Memo and accompanying MRL Guidance is now available on the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) website for growers and exporters.

    The International Blueberry MRL Memo, prepared by USHBC partner Bryant Christie Inc., contains the following information:

    • Data from the U.S. Monitoring Residue Program and Pesticide Residue Screening Program in key markets.
    • Pesticides and markets for which available residue data suggests the possibility of MRL violations.
    • The MRL status of pesticides registered for use on blueberries in key markets.

    The memo is available in a PDF report organized per market and includes established MRLs, as well as an analysis of residue detections that could exceed the established MRL in that market. Additionally, the report is available in an excel spreadsheet organized by active ingredient.

    The 2025 MRL guidance and “stoplight” charts reflect the following changes since winter 2024:

    • Canada raised (harmonized) the MRL for sulfoxaflor (Transform) to 2 ppm from the default of 0.1 ppm.
    • The EU raised (harmonized) the MRL for mefentrifluconazole (Cevya) to 5 ppm  from 0.01 ppm.
    • The Japanese MRL for iprodione of 15 ppm expired and is now 0.01 ppm. The USHBC has received a grant to conduct field trials to collect residue data required to seek a higher MRL.
    • The Philippines raised the MRL for zeta-Cypermethrin (Mustang) from no existing MRL, to 1.5 ppm (Codex).
    • The U.S. set a tolerance of 1.5 ppm for flonicamid (Beleaf). Canada’s MRL is 1.5 ppm, the EU’s MRL is 0.8 ppm, and Korea’s MRL is 1 ppm.

    The stoplight guidance reflects the most cautious interpretations of the decline curve graphs that were generated in 2013-2015 for SWD insecticides; 2016-2018 for select fungicides; and 2021-2023 for insecticides, miticides and fungicides. This tool was developed to aid blueberry growers in selecting materials to manage key pests close to harvest with a particular export market in mind. Selected markets have been included, some of which have more restricted MRLs or tolerances than required by the U.S. for particular materials. The MRLs used to develop this tool are published at bcglobal.bryantchristie.com/db as of March 8, 2025.

    To access the updated Blueberry MRL Memo and Database and the 2025 Blueberry MRL Charts and accompanying guidance, please visit the Exporter Dashboard on the USHBC website.

    Acknowledgements

    This work was originally made possible through funding by a USDA Technical Assistance for Specialty Crops grant through the USHBC, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development through the Strategic Growth Initiative and MBG Marketing, Oregon Blueberry Commission, Washington Blueberry Commission, Washington State Commission on Pesticide Registration, WSDA Specialty Crop Grant from 2013 through 2015 and a donation from two Oregon blueberry growers. 

    The 2025 Blueberry MRL Guidance was funded by the North American Blueberry Council and the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, and prepared by Camille Holladay at Synergistic Pesticide Laboratory, LLC.

  • U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council 2023 Impact Report

    Each year, the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) provides an impact report that details the council’s efforts to keep blueberries front of mind (and top of cart!) with consumers and other key audiences. In 2023, USHBC’s mantra of “Inspiring Possibilities” was more powerful than ever as the USHBC focused on new and innovative ways to boost global passion for blueberries.

    Despite 2023’s challenges, the USHBC succeeded in conveying the blueberry industry’s critical messages, provided timely information and news about the market, and sustained consumer enthusiasm for the amazing blues.

    Shelly Hartmann from USHBC shared, “I encourage you to spend some time with the report to get a look at the committee members and staff who are leading the charge and learn about all of our efforts in 2023. I think you’ll be inspired when you check out the report – I know I was!”

    The report includes:

    Exciting consumer promotions and power periods.

    Outstanding media coverage.

    Health research promotions and partnerships.

    Retail marketing efforts.

    Foodservice events and activations.

    Food manufacturing product development efforts.

    Tactics for engaging blueberry industry stakeholders.

    Data and insights work.

    Global business development efforts.

    Read the Report HERE.

  • Industry Celebrates National Blueberry Month with The Great Blueberry Recipe Showdown

    What are some of the most creative and mouth-watering ways to grab a boost of blue? Blueberry fans will answer this July with their delicious entries in The Great Blueberry Recipe Showdown. Hosted by the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC), the recipe contest celebrates National Blueberry Month, the versatility of blueberries and the dedication of blueberry fans. Christina Tosi, James Beard Award-winning pastry chef and founder and co-owner of Milk Bar, will judge the contest. The grand prize includes $10,000 and the opportunity to meet Milk Bar’s Christina Tosi and tour the flagship Milk Bar bakery in New York City.

    The Great Blueberry Recipe Showdown shines a spotlight on the many ways to enjoy blueberries – as a meal or snack, at any time of day, with sweet or savory flavors. Contest participants can submit their favorite original recipe in one of five categories: breakfast, lunch and dinner, snacks and appetizers, mocktails and cocktails, and dessert. In addition to one grand prize winner, which can come from any of the categories, one second-prize winner will be chosen in each of the other four categories ($1,000each) and one randomly chosen participant will win a sweepstakes prize just for entering ($500). The contest will run from July 1-31, and entries can be submitted at BlueberryShowdown.com.

    “Creativity, curiosity, expression fuel me, and that’s one of the reasons I love blueberries – their possibilities are endless! Blueberries add a pop of flavor, color, texture, and fun to any recipe, so they’re perfect for celebrating, in July and beyond,” said Tosi. “With The Great Blueberry Recipe Showdown, fans can really embrace the versatility of blueberries and have a blast in the kitchen. I can’t wait to see what they create – I know I’ll leave with a full inspiration tank!”

    In addition to delicious taste and versatility, every boost of blue comes with nutritious benefits. Blueberries, whether fresh or frozen, offer a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese and phytonutrients called polyphenols. They’re also a good source of fiber, containing 3.6 grams, and only 80 calories per serving (one cup, or approximately a handful). Eating blueberries is a simple, smart choice people can feel good about making every day.

    “USHBC is on a mission to grow our community of blueberry superfans and encourage people to grab a boost of blue each and every day. National Blueberry Month is the perfect occasion to celebrate blueberry fans across the U.S. and shine a light on the incredible growers who work so hard to bring this beautiful and delicious berry to our kitchens.” said Kasey Cronquist, president, the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council. “The Great Blueberry Recipe Showdown also gives fans the opportunity to share their talents and creativity as we celebrate this July. We’re excited to see their favorite ways to grab a boost of blue.”

    To submit a recipe in The Great Blueberry Recipe Showdown – and read the full contest rules – visit BlueberryShowdown.com.

    For more information on National Blueberry Month, including history, blueberry trivia and mouthwatering blueberry recipes for summer, visit Blueberry.org/celebrate.

    Promotion open only to legal residents of the 50 United States (D.C.), 18 years of age and older. Void where prohibited by law. Enter Promotion before 7/31/23 at 11:59 pm ET. Subject to full Official Rules, including prizes, judging criteria, and all details, click here. Sponsor: U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, 81 Blue Ravine Road, Suite 110, Folsom, CA95630.

    About the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council 
    The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council is an agriculture promotion group, representing blueberry growers and packers in North and South America who market their blueberries in the United States and overseas, and works to promote the growth and well-being of the entire blueberry industry. The blueberry industry is committed to providing blueberries that are grown, harvested, packed and shipped in clean, safe environments. Learn more at blueberrycouncil.org.

  • New Appointments to U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

    The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced the appointment of 28 members and alternate members to serve on the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC). Members and alternates will serve a three-year term ending Dec. 31, 2025. Four of the appointments are the exporter members and alternates whose terms will expire Dec. 31, 2024, to remain in the council’s nomination rotation.

    The 21-member council is composed of 12 producers, four importers, four exporters and one public member. Each member seat has a corresponding alternate seat. Members and alternates can serve up to two consecutive three-year terms.

    “The USHBC has an ambitious vision for the future of blueberries,” said USHBC President Kasey Cronquist, also president of the North American Blueberry Council (NABC). “With these newly appointed members of the council, we’ll be working together to inspire all the possibilities yet ahead for blueberries, while helping to ensure the future success and profitable returns back to our growers.”

    The newly appointed USHBC members are:

    California Producer: Doug LaCroix

    Florida Producer: Brittany Lee (formerly Florida Alternate)

    Georgia Producer: Tiffany Crosby

    Michigan Producer: Dennis Vander Kooi

    North Carolina Producer: Jimmy Horrell

    Importer #3: Ryan Lockman (formerly Importer #3 Alternate)

    Importer #4: Joe Barsi (formerly Importer #4 Alternate)

    Exporter #2 (CA): Mark Adams

    Exporter #3 (PE): Daniel Bustamante

    Exporter #4 (MX): Jose Luis Bustamante

    Newly appointed alternates are:

    California Producer: Bill Steed (formerly California Member)

    Florida Producer: Michael Hill

    Georgia Producer: Tammy Brannen

    Michigan Producer: George Fritz Jr. (formerly Michigan Member)

    New Jersey Producer: Chelsea Consalo

    North Carolina Producer: Kristen Johnson-Brinkley

    Oregon: Ellie Norris

    Washington Producer: Leif Olsen

    Importer #3: Andrew Maiman

    Importer #4: Bo Slack

    Exporter #2 (CA): Ray Biln (formerly Exporter #2 Alternate)

    Exporter #3 (PE): Jose Antonio Castro

    Exporter #4 (MX): Jose Guillermo Romo

    USHBC members who were reappointed are:

    New Jersey Producer: Paul Macrie III

    Oregon Producer: Doug Krahmer

    Washington Producer: Bryan Sakuma

    Importer #2: JC Clinard

    Reappointed alternates are: 

    Importer #2: Guy Cotton (formerly Handler member)

    Since 1966, Congress has authorized industry-funded research and promotion boards to provide a framework for agricultural industries to pool resources and combine efforts to develop new markets, strengthen existing markets and conduct important research and promotion activities. The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) provides oversight to 22 boards. The oversight ensures fiscal accountability and program integrity and is paid for by industry assessments.

    About the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

    Established in 2000, The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) is a federal agriculture research and promotion program with independent oversight from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). USHBC represents blueberry growers and packers in North and South America who market their blueberries in the United States and overseas, and works to promote the growth and well-being of the entire blueberry industry. USHBC was established by blueberry growers and currently has 2,500 growers, packers and importers. USHBC is committed to providing blueberries that are grown, harvested, packed and shipped in clean, safe environments. Learn more at ushbc.org.

  • Women in Blueberries Webinar Series

    For women in agriculture, creating a supportive network can be one of the most important factors for career success. Fortunately, in the blueberry industry, we’re surrounded by women who are making an impact! Register for the first session of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council’s (USHBC) new webinar series, Women in Blueberries: The Power of Supportive Women’s Networks, on July 13 from 2-3:30 p.m. ET/11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. PT.
    This webinar will examine the power of bringing women along on your career journey, and how to be more mindful in supporting women who inspire you. During the webinar, you’ll also interact with the other participants in breakout sessions curated by USHBC. Be part of the solution by joining the discussion!
    This opportunity is limited to 100 participants so register today!

  • New York City Event to Kick Off National Blueberry Month

    To kick off National Blueberry Month and announce the Grab A Boost, Give A Boost Challenge with No Kid Hungry, the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) is hosting a media event in New York City on June 28. Our team will create a blueberry garden oasis in the heart of New York at Gallow Green in The McKittrick Hotel, best known for its interactive theater experience at the base of the Chelsea Highline. We’ll host a grower showcase farm stand, design a series of immersive visuals at the theater to showcase our influencers, and build an installation that supports our partnership with No Kid Hungry.

    Plus, fitness expert Joey Thurman will conduct demonstrations and speak about the benefits of blueberries when it comes to living an active lifestyle. Wellness and nutrition expert Mascha Davis will conduct yoga and meditation demonstrations, as well as talks on intuitive eating. As registered dietitian, Davis will also speak to the many health and lifestyle benefits of blueberries. Both experts will help shape and drive media coverage and stories about blueberries following the event.

    A final send off at the end of the evening will officially kick off National Blueberry Month and our 31-Day Challenge with No Kid Hungry, and introduce our celebrity spokesperson. A photographer will document the event, capturing guests interacting with blueberry-related experiences. A post-event sizzle reel will be created for sharing with the industry, on social media and more.

  • Blueberry Industry’s Kasey Cronquist Named NAMA Ag Association Leader of the Year

    Kasey Cronquist, president of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC), has been named the National Agri-Marketing Association’s (NAMA) Ag Association Leader of the Year for 2022. Cronquist was recognized at an awards ceremony April 7 at the 2022 Agri-Marketing Conference in Kansas City.

    The award, one of NAMA’s highest honors, recognizes outstanding leadership, achievement and excellence among senior executives who have made significant contributions to the agriculture industry in their roles with associations or commodity organizations.

    “With more than 15 years’ experience with government, association, and non-profits, Kasey was named president of the North American Blueberry Council and the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council in 2019. It was the perfect place and time,” said Jenny Pickett, NAMA CEO. “Long-term, strategic vision is Kasey’s strength. And while the industry was riding high, new challenges demanded a bold, new vision to ensure continued growth.”

    Soon after taking the helm in 2019, Cronquist led the organization through a strategic refresh, followed by development of a new strategic plan, with a refined vision, mission and plan to make blueberries the world’s favorite fruit. Cronquist recognized the importance of fostering greater collaboration among all industry stakeholders and the need to unite to address challenges and opportunities that will take USHBC programs to the next level. The industry’s support of the changes and vision for the future were reflected in the results of the 2021 referendum. Of those who voted, 84% of producers and importers, who also represent 93% of the volume of highbush blueberries grown, were in favor of continuing the program. This represents a 10% increase in producers and importers (and 13% more volume), of those who voted in favor of USHBC in 2016.

    In 2020, USHBC launched a new overarching brand theme of Inspiring Possibilities for the industry, as well as Grab a Boost of Blue as a motivating call-to-action for consumers. Additionally, the USA Blueberriesexport brand was created to raise awareness of the quality and food safety assurance of U.S. grown blueberries. In June 2020, Cronquist initiated “The Business of Blueberries,” an industry podcast currently surpassing 35,000 downloads.

    In his short time with the organization, Cronquist has built a staff of longtime ag experts to execute the organization’s strategic plan; expanded the NABC and USHBC’s programs through voluntary funding; and led the USHBC through pandemic challenges, including labor and supply chain issues.

    “Kasey has made a tremendous impact helping the blueberry industry thrive and leading the USHBC into an exciting and successful future,” said USHBC Chair Shelly Hartmann. “His efforts have impressed blueberry growers, marketers, exporters and industry allies alike, and have become the guiding force in making blueberries the world’s favorite fruit.”

    Cronquist is also the president of the North American Blueberry Council; a member of the United Fresh Governmental Affairs Council and the International Blueberry Organization (IBO); He was previously the CEO and ambassador of the California Cut Flower Commission.

    About the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

    Established in 2000, The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) is a federal agriculture research and promotion program with independent oversight from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). USHBC represents blueberry growers and packers in North and South America who market their blueberries in the United States and overseas, and works to promote the growth and well-being of the entire blueberry industry. USHBC was established by blueberry growers and currently has 2,500 growers, packers and importers. USHBC is committed to providing blueberries that are grown, harvested, packed and shipped in clean, safe environments. Learn more at ushbc.blueberry.org.

  • Blueberry Council Details Plan Empowering Industry to ‘Make Blueberries the World’s Favorite Fruit’

    The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) today announced details around its recently approved 2021-2025 strategic plan, which charts an ambitious course to exponentially grow the volume and value of blueberries domestically and across the globe. The comprehensive plan explains how USHBC will lead demand-driving programs based on shared resources, research and insights that inspire possibilities and sustain the profitable growth of the blueberry industry – ultimately uniting industry stakeholders to work together toward making blueberries the world’s favorite fruit.

    USHBC collects approximately $10 million in assessment dollars from growers and importers of record annually, and the strategic plan addresses how the council will invest that funding to fuel increased blueberry demand and consumption. The plan includes expanded, measurable programmatic goals and tactics for five strategic pillars: integrated marketing communications, health and nutrition, industry services, global business development, and innovation and technology. The health and nutrition pillar will be driven by USHBC’s newly hired first-ever senior director of nutrition and health research, Leslie Wada, Ph.D., RD.

    “Our 2021-2025 strategic plan is the culmination of more input from blueberry industry leaders and strategic partners than ever before, discussed and distilled for over the better part of a year, to create a bold blueprint to boost blueberries worldwide,” said Kasey Cronquist, president of USHBC. “Our intent is that this plan and its guiding vision will positively impact the future beyond the next five years to hopefully the next decade or two of the blueberry industry.”

    USHBC embarked on the strategic plan development in partnership with Rockland Dutton Research & Consulting, drawing on highly relevant experience working with the National Mango Board, World Bank, Beef Checkoff, Hass Avocado Board and more. The work was the most robust planning process in the USHBC’s history, with significant internal and external input from approximately 50 interviews of board members and industry leaders, a survey of 193 industry stakeholders, and discussions with the entire USHBC staff and all partner agencies.

    “We’ve come a long way as a blueberry industry since the USHBC was established 20 years ago, and our exciting, forward-looking vision sets the stage for the next era of growth,” said Shelly Hartmann, chair of USHBC. “I’m proud to have a leading role as we begin to execute our new, unifying strategy to increase demand for blueberries, while strengthening and supporting our growers and stakeholders.”

    As the premier organization completely focused on growing the volume of blueberries sold in the U.S. and around the world, USHBC has driven demand for blueberries through comprehensive consumer promotional efforts and programming in retail, foodservice, export and food manufacturing. In 2019, 49% of U.S. households purchased blueberries — a 25% increase in annual household penetration over the previous six years. Blueberries are now on one in four menus, with 93% more restaurants offering blueberries than in 2005. And, 76% of food manufacturer respondents reported using blueberries in their company’s manufactured products — higher than any other berry.

    USHBC was established in 2000 as an official research and promotion program overseen by USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Services (AMS) division. It’s governed by a 20-member board that periodically adopts strategic plans to guide short- and long-term budget and program decisions.

    To view the 2021-2025 Strategic Plan, visit ushbc.org/about-ushbc.

    About the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council

    Established in 2000, The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) is a federal agriculture research and promotion program with independent oversight from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). USHBC represents blueberry growers and packers in North and South America who market their blueberries in the United States and overseas, and works to promote the growth and well-being of the entire blueberry industry. USHBC was established by blueberry growers and currently has 2,500 growers, packers and importers. USHBC is committed to providing blueberries that are grown, harvested, packed and shipped in clean, safe environments. Learn more at ushbc.org.

  • Leslie Wada Named USHBC’s First-Ever Senior Director of Nutrition and Health Research

    The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) recently announced the appointment of Leslie Wada, Ph.D., RD, as senior director of nutrition and health research. A longtime consultant for the council, Wada will continue to manage USHBC’s multi-million dollar pipeline of health research projects as she has for the past 12 years. In her expanded role, Wada will have increased ownership and responsibility in leading the health and nutrition pillar of the USHBC’s 2021-2025 strategic plan, integrating the research projects and results with the council’s overall strategy in marketing and promotions.

    A registered dietitian with an undergraduate degree in nutrition and dietetics from the University of California, Davis, Wada earned a Ph.D. in nutritional sciences from the University of California, Berkeley. She worked as a research scientist on nutrition studies and taught classes in dietetics at UC Berkeley before leaving academia to work with companies that developed functional foods and ingredients. For the past 20+ years, she has worked as an independent consultant for companies in the food and agriculture industry.

    To hear Wada tell the story of the heart-healthy properties of blueberries, check out this podcast episode of “The Business of Blueberries” from earlier in the year.