Food Ingredients Asia Exposition -- US Blueberries Excite ASEAN Food Industry

Ten years ago, USHBC exhibited at one of the first Food Ingredients Asia shows in Bangkok, Thailand.   This is a show similar to the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) back home.  In 2015 -- we are back and what a difference ten years makes.
In 2005 we spent most time explaining what a blueberry was...Now we are showing how to use and where to buy!
The show was a business-to business venue and the USHBC booth was the busiest scene at the entire show and this made exhibitors and attendees notice!   We met with more than 150 companies from 25 countries with strong representation from Indonesia, Malaysia and Vietnam as well as Thailand. Our Mascot fans were a huge hit in the steamy climate!  Thanks to my old friend and fellow Hawaii grad Rey Santella of USDA-FAS Bangkok and Richard Lieu who represents Food Export Midwest and Northeast in the region for all the help and assistance!

Here are a few shots from the floor!

Above: USHBC booth before the rush!

Above: Blueberry flavors were front and center at several booths.

Here is a new item: Blueberry Juice Powder.   Dozens of companies came to the booth asking about a water soluble juice powder.   This type of product is sold throughout Southeast Asia normally in small packets.   A great idea for drum drying or crystallizing blueberry juice, puree or concentrate.

The exhibition was next door to the world's largest Chinese restaurant.   The Chinese have a great influence in Thailand and a huge flow of Chinese tourists into the country.

I was happy to see that i was staying in a "no-durian" hotel!