Expand Rural Maine Economy By Commercializing Blueberry Dietary Supplement

According to the 1990 census, the average household per capita income in Washington, Waldo, Hancock counties in Maine were $9,607, $11,047, $12,347 respectively. About 25% of the household incomes in Washington county were under $10,000; 15% of Maine overall. Maine's agricultural industry and dependence on tourism economy results in more seasonal part-time work and higher unemployment rates than the rest of the country. The development and commercialization of a blueberry dietary supplement based on scientific data will expand Maine's rural economy. Successful marketing and sale of this clinically tested supplement will: 1) Provide manufacturing managerial, professional Maine employment opportunities; 2) Furnish Maine blueberry growers with a sustainable, accessible market; 3) Elevate the standard of living through provision of a prosperous economy. A dependable blueberry dietary supplement has not been developed in the U.S. based on scientific data. Scientific research has revealed that blueberry anthocyanins: may contribute to vision health and may provide anti-inflammatory relief. Phase I proposes a clinical trial investigating the effects of blueberry supplement on human sight that will support the structure/function claim. "TO PROMOTE VISUAL HEALTH". Phase I provides the foundation for a market feasibility study to be conducted in Phase II for the rapid commercialization of a blueberry dietary supplement.