Since the inception of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC), Denny Doyle has been a leader in the organization and the voice of New Jersey blueberry growers. Continuing our conversation from last week, Doyle guides us through more blueberry history, the future of blueberry promotion and opportunities on the frozen side of blueberry production.

Host Kasey Cronquist, president of USHBC and NABC, is joined by Denny Doyle, blueberry grower from New Jersey and the president of the New Jersey Blueberry Industry Advisory Council.

“The overall vision [of USHBC], and I think still holds true to this day, is to bring awareness of our blueberries to the consumer. That is the primary foundation.” - Denny Doyle

“Give me the same kind of professional visionaries [as the fresh side of fruit] on the frozen side of fruit. In my mind, in the short term of a long-term vision, it’s that.” - Denny Doyle

This episode is part two in a conversation with Doyle. Topics include: 

• The foundational reasons for USHBC.
• Early promotion efforts by USHBC.
• Importance of having credible health claims.
• Consumption rates overseas and in the United States. 
• What COVID-19 taught us about blueberries.
• Future opportunities in the frozen and manufacturing markets.

USHBC/NABC Virtual Conference & Expo Update

Due to the Virtual Conference & Expos, there was no crop call recorded this week. In its place, we’ve included a few highlights from the USHBC/NABC Virtual Conference & Expo. Enjoy!