U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council: Blueberries on Top

Consumer usage and attitude studies show that blueberries are the number one preferred berry

Since 2003, the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) has conducted periodic nationwide consumer usage and attitude studies on blueberries. Since 2013, findings show that blueberries are the number one preferred berry, with a 700% increase in blueberry consumption since 2001.

Due to its renowned health halo and beloved flavor, this increased consumer demand has led to blueberries being the number one-dollar growth fruit at retail in 20192. With growth on the consumer side of the market, demand for blueberries in food manufacturing has followed. According to a 2019 USHBC Blueberries in Food Manufacturing Study, 65% food manufacturer respondents agree or strongly agree that there is strong consumer demand for products that contain blueberries, and 80% agree or strongly agree that adding blueberries to products provides consumers with perceived health benefits or additional health benefits3.

Therefore, it’s no surprise that 75% of food manufacturers respondents reported using blueberries as an ingredient – higher than any other berry3.

Visit www.blueberrytech.org to learn more about how blueberries can take your products further. Together, let’s build a partnership that drives demand!
—U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, www.blueberrytech.org

Notes:

(1)   ERS Data for Food Availability
(2)   2019 Total U.S. Retail Blueberry Performance, Category Partners, Nielsen
(3)   2019 USHBC Blueberries in Food Manufacturing Study (Rose Research)

This exclusive Prepared Foods webinar looks at the industry’s latest low-and no-sugar new foods and beverages—as well as the new ingredient options to consider for 2024 and beyond.