Emerging research supporting the positive effects of berries on human health and disease prevention.

The cluster of papers included here is taken from research presentations at the most recent Berry Health Benefits Symposium (BHBS). The BHBS is a biennial conference that was initiated in 2005 and met for the fourth time in 2011. Similar to the past three meetings, the 2011 BHBS covers emerging and adds to the growing body of scientific knowledge supporting the positive effects of berry fruit on human health promotion and disease prevention. Important aspects of the BHBS also include fostering open communication and collaboration among several disparate groups necessary to ensure regular and continued consumption of berry fruits among the population. These groups include berry growers, producers, and processors, as well as basic and clinical researchers, media representatives, and health professionals. Thus, the BHBS continues to be an excellent forum for presenting and disseminating new and ongoing berry health benefits research.