Drop in Florida citrus volumes after Hurricane Ian

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has released its December forecast for the Florida citrus crop, predicting a dip in overall volumes.

According to the USDA, production stands at 20m boxes of Florida oranges, 1.8m boxes of Florida grapefruit and 600,000 boxes of Florida tangerines.

The crop forecast released, on 9 December, is the first to reflect the impact of Hurricane Ian on the industry.

“Florida citrus growers’ commitment to providing high-quality Florida orange juice remains strong as they work tirelessly to address the impacts of severe weather events and citrus greening,” said Shannon Shepp, executive director of the Florida Department of Citrus.

”The December crop forecast reflects the very real challenges that Hurricane Ian, Hurricane Nicole, and the ongoing impacts of citrus greening have created for growers across the state, but we remain hopeful and motivated to secure the future of our industry,” she continued.

“Growers are focused on recovery and continue to invest in new tools to help rebuild,” Shepp added. ”Florida Citrus growers are resilient. They have withstood centuries of extreme weather, and this hurricane season is no exception.”