FDA Proposal Could Sweeten Outlook for U.S. Orange Growers

For a lot of folks, that morning glass of orange juice is a simple pleasure. But for citrus growers, it’s been anything but simple. Between hurricanes in Florida and the ongoing fight with citrus greening disease, the U.S. orange industry has been under incredible strain. Florida production has collapsed—down 92% since 2005—and today, California growers are carrying nearly 80% of the U.S. orange supply.

Now, a small regulatory shift could offer some relief. The FDA is proposing to lower the minimum sugar content requirement for pasteurized orange juice from 10.5 to 10 degrees Brix. If you’re not familiar, that’s the measure of natural sweetness in the juice. And while the difference amounts to about one gram of sugar in an eight-ounce glass—something consumers won’t notice—it could make a world of difference for growers and processors.

According to a Market Intel report from the American Farm Bureau, this change could save the industry over $50 million a year. By enabling more domestic oranges to qualify for higher-value juice markets, the change could also reduce the diversion of fruit into lower-paying outlets in low-sugar years. The FDA proposal is open for public comment until November 4, so growers and consumers alike have the chance to weigh in.

You can find more on this story at https://www.fb.org/market-intel/fdas-orange-juice-rule-could-boost-u-s-growers