U.S.A. Blueberries Offer a Healthy Twist to Diwali Sweets and Baked Goods

U.S.A. Blueberries Offer a Healthy Twist to Diwali Sweets and Baked Goods

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 20, 2024

As Diwali approaches on October 31st, consumers are shifting towards healthier food choices, creating demand for nutrient-rich options. U.S.A. Blueberries have emerged as a popular ingredient, offering both flavor and health benefits to traditional Indian sweets and baked goods. With their vibrant taste and versatility, blueberries are transforming festive treats while promoting wellness during the holiday season.

Chefs and bakers are now incorporating blueberries into classic Indian sweets like mithai, alongside fusion desserts such as puddings and cakes. The combination of blueberries with traditional flavors reflects a growing trend of blending Western baking techniques with Indian culinary traditions. These innovative creations cater to health-conscious consumers looking for festive indulgences without compromising on nutrition.

Raj Kapoor, India Representative of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC), emphasized the growing role of blueberries in India’s culinary landscape. “Blueberries are not just a fleeting trend; they signify a broader shift towards health-conscious eating. By incorporating blueberries into our culinary practices, we elevate our products while also promoting community health and well-being,” Kapoor said.

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Blueberries are packed with essential nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese, contributing to heart health, bone strength, and immune support. Their availability in both fresh and frozen forms makes it easy for consumers to use them in everyday dishes. With the Indian bakery market projected to reach $29.4 billion by 2032, health-focused foods like blueberry-based products are gaining momentum among both traditional and modern consumers.

The market data reflects growing demand for blueberries in India. According to Volza, between January and September 2024, India imported 661,242 kg of dried blueberries, with the U.S. supplying 392,786 kg. These dried varieties, often sweetened, are widely used in snack foods, baked goods, and sweets, supporting the "Make in India" initiative while generating jobs in sectors like bakery and dairy.

Fresh blueberry imports have also grown, with India sourcing 420,923 kg of fresh berries—mostly from Peru—and 237,266 kg of Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) blueberries, sourced from Chile, Canada, and the U.S. The availability of year-round supplies ensures that the growing demand for blueberries can be met throughout the year.

With just 80 calories per cup, blueberries provide a nutritious, low-calorie option packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Their growing popularity reflects a broader consumer trend towards healthy eating and innovative food products. As the Indian baking industry evolves, U.S. blueberries are expected to play a key role in reshaping festive and everyday treats by offering a perfect blend of taste, health, and creativity.


Osama Jalali Brings India's Forgotten Recipes to JW Marriott Kolkata

Osama Jalali Brings India's Forgotten Recipes to JW Marriott Kolkata

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 9, 2026

JW Kitchen at JW Marriott Kolkata is set to host the Osama Jalali Food Festival, bringing India's forgotten recipes and rich culinary traditions to the table. Celebrated food historian and author Osama Jalali will showcase a selection of heirloom recipes, regional delicacies and traditional cooking techniques, offering diners an opportunity to explore lesser-known flavours from different parts of India.

Running over ten evenings from 14–23 August 2026, the festival will feature specially curated dinner menus inspired by royal kitchens, historic food traditions and regional home cooking.

More than just a food festival, the experience aims to connect diners with the stories and traditions behind India's diverse cuisine. Each dish reflects a different part of the country's culinary heritage, giving guests an opportunity to discover authentic flavours and recipes that have been passed down through generations.

For food lovers and those interested in India's culinary history, the festival offers a chance to explore traditional Indian cooking through a specially curated dining experience.

Event Details

  • Venue: JW Kitchen, JW Marriott Kolkata
  • Dates: 14–23 August 2026
  • Time: Dinner from 7.00 PM Onwards.


Oasis Brewery Brings Fresh Flavours to the Tap With Its Signature Beer Collection

Oasis Brewery Brings Fresh Flavours to the Tap With Its Signature Beer Collection

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 9, 2026

Oasis Brewery is inviting beer enthusiasts to explore its collection of signature and seasonal brews, bringing together different flavours and brewing styles at its Whitefield, Bangalore location.

Leading the seasonal collection is the Very Berry Ale, a fruit-forward beer brewed with strawberries, blueberries, mulberries and raspberries. The light-bodied brew offers vibrant berry flavours, a refreshing character and a crisp finish with a subtle tartness.

Also available is the Perry Pear Cider, made entirely with fresh pear juice without added sugars. Inspired by the traditional Perry style, the cider combines delicate floral notes with fresh pear aromas and champagne-like carbonation for a smooth and refreshing experience.

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The collection is completed by Oasis Brewery's signature 007 IPA, an Imperial India Pale Ale inspired by the iconic James Bond. Built around the number seven, from its ingredients and brewing process to its 7% ABV, the beer delivers a bold hop character while maintaining a balanced finish.

The beers are crafted under the guidance of Oasis Brewery's Brewmaster, a Heriot-Watt University, Scotland graduate with more than a decade of brewing experience. With a focus on quality and innovation, the brewery's collection brings together different flavour profiles and brewing techniques for those looking to explore craft beer in Bangalore.

  • Location: Oasis Brewery, Whitefield, Bangalore
  • Time: 12PM Onwards.

Little Soi Brings Asia's Noodle Heritage to Life With The Noodle Theory Festival

Little Soi Brings Asia's Noodle Heritage to Life With The Noodle Theory Festival

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 9, 2026

Little Soi, the popular destination for authentic Asian cuisine, has launched The Noodle Theory Festival, a special celebration of Asia's rich noodle traditions. The festival brings together regional flavours, authentic recipes and traditional cooking techniques across Chennai, Coimbatore and Kochi.

Starting 6th August 2026 onwards, the festival takes diners on a culinary journey through the noodle cultures of Thailand, Malaysia, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, China, Myanmar and Hong Kong. The menu highlights how noodles have remained an important part of food traditions across Asia, with each region bringing its own flavours, ingredients and cooking styles to the bowl.

The festival features a selection of regional noodle favourites, including Biang Biang Black Bean & Hot Pepper, Hong Kong Style Wonton Mein, and Abura Soba, available with Beef, Chicken or Prawn. Guests can also try the refreshing Burmese Nangyi Thoke and the popular Thai Kwuay Tiew Rua (Boat Noodles), along with several other noodle creations inspired by different parts of Asia. Each dish showcases the differences in noodle shapes, textures, broths, sauces and preparation methods that have helped create some of the continent's best-known comfort foods.

The Noodle Theory Festival goes beyond a seasonal food menu, offering diners an opportunity to explore the cultural side of noodles and the traditions behind each dish. The festival highlights how geography, local ingredients and generations of culinary knowledge have shaped different noodle dishes across Asia. The idea behind The Noodle Theory is simple: while every bowl may have its own flavour and style, noodles continue to bring people together through comfort, community and craftsmanship. The festival is available for a limited period at Little Soi – Chennai, Coimbatore and Kochi Outlets, giving food lovers an opportunity to explore a wide range of Asian noodle traditions under one roof.

For More Information

  • Little Soi – Besant Nagar | GOCHS Colony, Besant Nagar, Chennai: 600090
  • Little Soi – Coimbatore | GM Nagar, Pudur, Coimbatore: 641037
  • Little Soi – Kochi | Aditya Tower, Ernakulam, Kerala: 682020
  • Date: 6th August 2026 Onwards.

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