Florida Citrus Commission Shares Key Updates
At a recent Florida Citrus Commission meeting, several key updates were shared that will directly impact the citrus industry this season.
Two emergency rules were approved to revise maturity standards for Florida oranges and grapefruit that go to processing. These temporary rules give processors the option to accept fruit within the updated guidelines, but they’re not required to do so. You can find all the details on the FDOC grower site: https://www.floridacitrus.org/grower/florida-department-of-citrus/legal/fdoc-rules-statutes/
The Global Marketing Committee reported strong progress, with Florida Orange Juice sales already reaching more than 45 percent of this year’s goal. Fresh fruit programs are focusing on Florida citrus being the juiciest and most flavorful in the world. A workshop in January will bring growers and packers together to plan next year’s marketing efforts.
Also at the meeting, Dr. Marisa Zansler shared research showing that when consumers understand the health benefits of orange juice, they’re more willing to pay current prices, which helps during supply challenges.
And, lastly, the 2025–26 Expedited Propagation Program will also partner with CRAFT to manage licensing fees for new CRISPR rootstocks.
The next Citrus Commission meeting is set for mid-December.
