Supplies of Florida grapefruit are good.
“We’re in the middle of one of the busiest times of the season with gift fruit, fundraising and the additional holiday demand from our everyday partners. As far as the crop size, we don’t expect a big change in overall volume this year compared to last,” says David Haller of Premier Citrus in Vero Beach, FL, adding that while Florida grapefruit comes from all of the state’s growing regions, the majority comes from the Indian River growing area.
Competing with Florida grapefruit in the North American market is Texas grapefruit.
This year’s Florida crop is also seeing similar sizing to last year. “A lot of the crop has been spot picked for size and there is some anticipation that grapefruit sizing will drop off after the first of the year,” says Haller. “That has been the trend the last few seasons. However, we have had record breaking rain fall amounts the last two months so there is a good chance that the fruit may size up a bit.”
Better to eat
At the same time, the fruit’s Brix and eating quality is better than last year. “We have had very positive feedback regarding the taste of all of our varieties being that it is still somewhat early in the season. The peak is still a few weeks away, it will only get better,” he says.
As for demand, Haller says Premier anticipates exceptional demand in the next few weeks. “A lot of our retail partners already have promotions in place leading up to the New Year. Many people like to start healthy eating plans as New Year’s resolutions and grapefruit is always a popular item,” he says. He also adds that demand for Florida grapefruit is extremely strong in both North America and overseas.
“There is very good interest in the European and Asian markets as well as Canada and the U.S.,” says Haller. “Florida grapefruit and in particular, Indian River grapefruit, is considered by many to be the best in the world. The appeal continues to increase. Unfortunately, it’s becoming more difficult to grow and keep up with demand.”
This ties back to the biggest challenge with grapefruit: farming. “It’s been extremely demanding for several years. We are constantly dealing with disease, climate fluctuations and storms. The costs associated with growing a crop continues to rise as production remains flat or declines. Florida citrus growers are resilient and believe in their product earnestly, I am confident that the future will be encouraging,” says Haller.
Overall consumption to go up?
And in terms of demand, Haller notes that there has been a jump in demand for citrus items since the start of the pandemic. “And with more people working from home, I can see consumption growing,” he says. However, at the same time, consumption of grapefruit has been flat for many years and in some cases, declined. “With the busy lives people live, convenience is important. Grapefruit is not a convenience item. It takes time to halve and section and it’s rare that families have breakfast together anymore. That may change in todays new world.”
As for pricing, it continues to be consistent and has come off the early season opening prices. “Overall, it’s on par with last year. I would expect to see little change, if any, in the next few months,” says Haller.
Meanwhile adding to its growing citrus business, Premier will introduce the Florigold label to coincide with its Orri mandarin program. The fruit is available December through February in cartons, ½ cartons, 2 lb, 3 lb. and 5 lb. bags.
For more information:
David Haller
Premier Citrus
Tel: +1-772-562-5030
[email protected]
www.premiercitruspackers.com