Blueberries are a familiar favorite in smoothies, muffins and yogurt, but a new group of food entrepreneurs is finding ways to take the fruit far beyond the produce aisle.
The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, in partnership with innovation advisory firm VentureFuel, has announced the 2026 cohort of its Blueberry Boost Accelerator. The program highlights emerging brands using blueberries in products designed around growing consumer interest in functional nutrition, convenient snacks, clean-label ingredients and premium food and beverage experiences.
The initiative comes as consumers increasingly seek products that combine flavor, convenience and perceived health benefits. According to the council, 93% of consumers consider blueberries a healthy food, while nearly six in 10 would like to see more exciting and adventurous ways to enjoy them.
Among this year’s companies is New York-based Oodles of Doodles Blueberry, which is focused on children’s hydration. Co-founder and CEO Alisha Eason is developing a blueberry flavor expected to launch later this year in several formats, including sparkling and still ready-to-drink beverages, hydration sticks and vitamin-fiber juice boxes.
The accelerator also features Jam Packd Jams Blueberries, a Minnesota company founded by husband-and-wife team Brian and Michelle Platt. The company’s functional jams combine ingredients such as collagen, protein, prebiotic fiber and superfoods without added sugar. Its blueberry variety is positioned as a fruit-forward option for consumers looking to incorporate functional ingredients into everyday foods.
Dr. John’s Healthy Sweets, based in Michigan, is taking blueberries into the better-for-you snack category. The company, known for sugar-free lollipops, is developing a fruit-based snack made with all-natural ingredients and fortified with nutrients. Blueberry will be the first flavor introduced in the new fruit snack line.
Blueberries are also making their way into the premium beverage market through Blue Rascal Distillery in New Jersey. The company is incorporating the fruit into brandies, liqueurs and craft spirits, drawing inspiration from the state’s blueberry-growing heritage.
The variety of products demonstrates the flexibility of blueberries as an ingredient, according to Kevin Hamilton, vice president of global marketing and communications at USHBC.
Fred Schonenberg, founder and CEO of VentureFuel, said the cohort demonstrates that blueberries can serve as a platform for innovation across multiple consumer categories.
Participating companies will work with industry experts during the accelerator to refine products, strengthen commercialization strategies and pursue growth opportunities. The program will culminate in September with a live pitch competition at The Blueberry Convention, where founders will compete for non-dilutive funding and opportunities to expand their businesses.
The accelerator ultimately aims to help startups grow while creating new opportunities for blueberry growers by expanding how consumers experience the fruit.