To gain valuable insights regarding the Italian citrus industry, Tridge has collaborated with Eurofood SRL, specializing in the processing of various citrus fruits for a multitude of retail products as well as derives for industrial use. Based in Sicily, the heart of citrus production in Italy, the company has retained its legacy as one of the first growers of lemons within the area, now extending to 5 generations.
Having favorable climatic conditions and environment, lemons and blood oranges are Sicily’s flagship product. Both citruses were boosted by the pandemic, with blood oranges being highly sought out as it has a higher vitamin C content than conventional oranges.
Lemons making a Comeback
Production for Sicilian lemons has been on the declining trend for the past 25 years as prices have been on the down-low, according to Eurofood SRL. However, farmers have begun to invest more into production as demand for fresh lemons skyrocketed since 2013, with consumers are increasingly becoming conscientious of their diet. Eurofood SRL has established vertical integration of its lemon production, through increasing its land area and creating its own orchards to increase capacity. Spain has been seen expanding its capacity as well, with the overall consumption in Eastern Europe and Asia increasing, as well as a surge in the consumption of natural lemon juice in the US.
Production volumes of lemons have been increasing from other countries, such as Argentina, South Africa, and Brazil, with the increasing demand from consumers, but Sicilian lemons have maintained their position as one of the top exporters in the world. Despite its higher price range, its quality continues to be of the highest. Sicilian lemons are harvested manually as each picker checks the quality of the fruit individually, whereas a machine would not be able to consider those factors. The fruits also hold low content of pesticides, which is why it is preferred in many markets despite its price. With such high standards, Italian farmers are associated with consortiums to ensure traceability of its products.
Sicilian Blood Oranges top tier quality
Blood oranges hold double, or more vitamin C than regular oranges, making them in demand as an immunity booster through the pandemic. Like lemons, Sicilian blood oranges are of the highest quality, being only harvested near the volcanic area of Catania. Other countries have attempted to grow blood oranges, such as in Spain, Florida, and Australia, but the Sicilian growing environment remains unmatched.
Outlook of Sicilian Citruses
For the 2021 season, Argentinian lemon production is expected to falter compared to 2020, with a 15-20% reduction, while South Africa and Brazil are expected to see a boost, according to Eurofood SRL. Spain has also seen great growth within the last decade, but this will not replace Italy within the world market. Italy’s range of premium, high-quality citrus products will retain its demand from health-conscious consumers and high-value markets, not to mention its value-added products. The onset of the pandemic has limited picking fruits for the 2020 season but with the relaxation of regulations, this is expected to return production to normal levels for 2021.