Florida Citrus Growers Welcome Proposed Change to OJ Sugar Standard

The Florida Department of Citrus has officially responded to the federal government’s proposal to lower the required sugar level, or Brix standard, for pasteurized orange juice. The rule would reduce the minimum from 10.5 to 10 degrees.

From the perspective of Florida’s citrus growers, this half-degree adjustment is significant. It means more oranges grown in the state can qualify for 100% orange juice. With ongoing supply challenges, growers say this change is sorely needed to keep more of Florida’s crop headed for store shelves.

Growers have advocated for this regulatory update since 2022, petitioning the FDA to revise the long-standing standard to better reflect the characteristics of today’s Florida-grown oranges.

Matt Joyner, executive vice president and CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual, called the move a “monumental step forward.” He said if finalized, the rule will help growers stay competitive, expand juice availability, and ensure families continue to enjoy the high-quality Florida orange juice they know and love. A public comment period is open through November 4. Details are available at:

https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/08/06/2025-14949/food-standards-of-identity-modernization-pasteurized-orange-juice