EMERYVILLE, Calif. – Nestle USA and Jamba Juice Company say they are close to signing a renewed partnership for the development of a new line of ready-to-drink energy beverages to be available for retail sale in the northeastern United States in early 2011. Nestle Jamba All-Natural Energy Drinks will feature real fruit juice boosted with natural caffeine.

“We are thrilled at the possibility of a renewed partnership with Jamba Juice,” said Rob Case, president of the Nestle Beverage Division, in a press release. “Nestle Jamba All-Natural Energy Drinks will allow retailers to capitalize on the growing trend of consumers seeking more health-oriented, fruit-based natural beverages that provide quick energy without all the artificial ingredients.”

Jamba Juice and Nestle USA plan to leverage their respective product development talents to create a line of energy drinks that provide a meaningful point of difference to consumers within the $8.5 billion energy drink category. The Jamba All-Natural Energy Drinks will be available in three flavors: pomegranate blueberry, strawberry banana and crisp apple. As with all Jamba Juice products, the beverages will contain no preservatives, no artificial flavors, zero grams of trans fat and no high fructose corn syrup.

“The Jamba brand name stands for better-for-you, great taste, and high quality — attributes we share in common with Nestle USA,” said James D. White, chairman, president and CEO of Jamba Juice Company, in a press release. “The development of these products is a reflection of the extraordinary partnership and commitment to excellence that exists between our two companies.”