Jamba Juice Co., Emeryville, Calif., and The Quaker Oats Co., a subsidiary of PepsiCo Inc., Purchase, N.Y., have entered into a strategic product development alliance. The partnership capitalizes on both companies' equities and capabilities in engaging health-conscious consumers, and officially launches with an easy-to-blend version of Quaker Oats whole grain as part of Jamba Juice’s roster of boosts available in its stores nationwide, the companies say.

The Quaker-branded boost delivers at least 16 grams, or one full serving, of whole grains and enables consumers to enjoy the whole fruit smoothies while getting the added benefit of whole grains.  This new addition to the Jamba boost product line serves as a convenient solution for people seeking simple ways to lead healthier lives and is available for $0.25, the companies say.

“We're pleased to enter into a product development partnership with an innovative partner like Quaker and launch our first project together,” said James D. White, Jamba Juice chairman, president and chief executive officer, in a statement. “Jamba and Quaker both support healthy living and offer better-for-you products and programs for consumers. This will be a major step forward in our mutual mission of developing and offering innovative snack or meal solutions and helping fuel healthy families.”

Jose Luis Prado, president of Quaker Foods North America, added: “As the leader in oats, it's imperative we continue to develop new and transformative ways for people to enjoy whole grains, which play an essential role promoting overall health. This not only includes developing breakthrough, oat-based products, but also working with critical partners like Jamba Juice to broaden oats’ accessibility. We're excited to align with them on this project.”