It’s a blue world—da ba dee da ba daa—the rest of us are just living in it. With 2020 already declared the year of the blueberry, it’s safe to say that the industry as a whole is anticipating big, big things for this small, but mighty fruit. As such, we tapped a few category experts to find out how to take advantage of the crop that’s finally getting its time to shine in the bluelight...
“April is ripe with spring holidays, longer sunny days, and lots of fresh blueberries for shoppers to enjoy now and all summer long. Research shows that these blue beauties are increasing in popularity every year due to their burst of flavor, deep blue color, and versatility, all while being packed with nutrition. It’s no wonder 2020 was officially declared the year of ‘blue.’ I love the fact that, each season, kids and adults alike are eating more fresh blueberries, choosing them as an everyday snack, and keeping them on the weekly grocery list. Here’s to snacking blue with you this spring.”
“Studies have shown that consuming one cup of blueberries a day provides the recommended amount of antioxidants needed daily. Some blueberries are extra sweet and some are more tangy. I always recommend eating them in bunches of three, this way you’ll get a burst of all the flavors the variety has to offer—and you’ll get there faster!”
“Blueberries have been an exciting extension of our organic program and, in a short decade, we have built a reputation in producing flavor-dense, 100-percent organic blueberries! Our leading organic program is, in part, due to our unique microclimates and, in part, due to our efforts in regenerative agriculture and its impact on the soil biome. It is also greatly impacted by our thoughtful genetic selections with programs like Sekoya. Being one of two partners in North America, we are able to grow a number of exclusive varieties that produce jumbo, crunchy, high-flavor profile berries with a phenomenal eating experience, adding even more depth to our 100-percent organic blueberry season. Isn’t that what makes the produce industry so unique? We are continually striving to create the best experience for our consumers, all while growing superfoods loaded with antioxidants and impacting the quality of the environment around us!”
“Blueberries continue to grow in popularity to the point where blueberry was recently announced as the flavor of the year for 2020! In addition to their popularity, the benefits of blueberry consumption have driven sales over the years and remind consumers about the nutritional benefits of strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries. Capitalizing on these factors is one of our biggest opportunities in the produce section! Retailers can encourage shoppers to buy berries with recipe suggestions for any meal and snack occasion. We recommend recipes that are easy to assemble and directly address the needs and values of on-the-go consumers.”
“The fresh blueberry segment continues to demonstrate strong category growth. With ample supply now available in the market, consumers are becoming savvy in their ability to select only the finest tasting berries. Driscoll’s heritage of pursuing delightful flavor is demonstrated in our research and development commitment to proprietary varieties specifically bred for our independent growers. This past fall, Driscoll’s raised the flavor bar once again with the launch of Limited Edition Sweetest Batch™ Blueberries, a premium offering that has limited supply. Throughout the year, consumers look for brands they know and trust to deliver on their demand for high flavor.”
“Known as an ultimate superfood, blueberry consumption continues to grow. They are packed with antioxidants, and the best part is that they are really delicious, too. Blueberries are a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed as a quick, healthy snack and as a great addition to salads, blended in smoothies, added to baked goods, cereals, yogurts, and so much more. Crystal Valley Foods offers blueberries year-round to satisfy the increasing consumer demand. We are looking forward to the domestic season this year starting with Florida fruit in March, Georgia-grown fruit in April and May, and Alabama blueberries in June and July.” 
