Is Florida the Capital for Gitrus Fruits?

Many times an association is made between the citrus fruits, in particular the orange fruit and the state of Florida. Perhaps this is because estimates have been made that Florida accounts for approximately 75% of the oranges in the United States and for around 40% of the orange juice supply worldwide which is pretty impressive for a group of citrus fruits. In fact, roughly 90% of the oranges in Florida are used to create the popular morning breakfast beverage of orange juice. However, it is not simply the quantity of Florida oranges that makes them so unique. The quality of a Florida orange is what makes them so enjoyable to so many people around the globe.

One of the reasons so many look to this state for all of their citrus needs is because a Florida orange can typically be around 25% heavier then oranges harvested elsewhere. The reason for this is that Florida oranges contain more juice and less peel, thus making the weight increase and the overall quality. The citrus fruits industry in Florida is one of the most highly regulated in the United States, which is comprised of a network that includes the Florida Citrus Commission, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. All of these entities come together to continuously regulate and inspect all aspects of citrus fruit productivity to ensure safe and satisfying consumption by the consumer.

Oranges in Florida have tended to grow so successfully mostly due to the climate and soil. Once the oranges have ripened, a workers hand picks the citrus fruits from the trees and place them into canvas bags. An interesting Florida orange fact is that oranges that are grown and taken from the southern side of the tree are always the sweetest. Florida oranges are transferred to a packing house where they go through several inspections on a conveyor belt, as well as pass through numerous of the specific citrus fruits inspections. The oranges are then separated, usually by their size and packaged for distribution to your local grocery store.

In addition to the sweet flavor, many people that eat oranges do so for the tasty sources of vitamins that they provide. As many may already know oranges are a superb source of Vitamin C, but they are also an excellent provider of potassium, niacin, and Vitamin B among several other vitamins and nutrients. Oranges can also provide a great alternative to salty and sugary snacks, with an entire average sized orange only containing about 70 calories. Citrus fruits can also provide a great accessory to any meal, including a topping on your cereal at breakfast or an extra flavor in your yogurt.

Florida oranges as well as any form of citrus fruits should never be stored in an air tight space, such as a bag or wrapped with film. Instead, store your oranges in a place that is between 35 and 50 degrees to ensure freshness. Remember to eat your oranges sooner than later, as they have a fresh life of approximately 3 to 4 weeks once they are picked. Be sure to mark your calendars if you are craving these citrus fruits, as Florida oranges are usually available in most grocery stores from October through June.

Taste the Sunshine with Hale Groves

At Hale Groves, we believe the best gifts come from the land, not a factory. For generations, our fruit has been grown slowly under the Florida sun, picked at its peak, and delivered fresh to your door. From sweet Navel Oranges to rare Honeybells, every gift shares the simple joy of real flavor—perfect for holidays, milestones, or everyday moments worth celebrating.

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