About Florida Citrus
The real difference in the taste and quality of Florida Citrus stems from our dedicated Florida Citrus Growers. Most groves in Florida are family-owned and operated by multi-generational growers who work before the sun rises and well after it sets to bring the highest quality Florida Citrus products to tables across the world.
Who We Are
The Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC) is an executive agency of Florida government charged with the marketing, research, and regulation of the Florida citrus industry. Its activities are funded by an assessment paid by growers on each box of citrus that moves through commercial channels. The industry employs over 32,500 people, provides an annual economic impact of $6.9 billion to the state, and contributes hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenues that help support Florida’s schools, roads, and health care services.
The FDOC also has extensive regulatory responsibilities, covering every aspect of the industry, including research, production, maturity standards, licensing, transportation, labeling, packing, and processing.
The FDOC is governed by the Florida Citrus Commission, an eleven-member board appointed by the Governor of Florida to represent citrus growers, processors, and packers.
Why Florida
Florida is known for sunshine, beaches, theme parks, and … citrus. Our subtropical climate and unique, sandy soil provide the perfect environment to grow the sweetest, juiciest citrus in the world. Florida Oranges, our official state fruit, produce our official state beverage and make our license plates pop.
Florida’s amazing, multi-generation growers have citrus in their blood – it’s a way of life. Passionate and dedicated, they work tirelessly to bring the highest quality, best-tasting Florida Citrus to your table.
Our growers are committed to preserving the state’s natural resources by adopting sustainable agricultural practices. Partnering with leading scientific researchers, Florida Citrus growers continually improve the ways they reduce water usage, protect wildlife, and limit erosion.
Our History
How did citrus become synonymous with the Sunshine State? Why is the orange our state fruit and the orange blossom our official flower? Discover the unique Florida Citrus history that spans centuries. It all began with early Spanish explorers, who planted the first trees that would one day produce America’s favorite juice.
Meet the Growers
The uniquely delicious taste that differentiates Florida Citrus? That’s thanks to our dedicated growers. Most groves in Florida are family-owned and operated by multi-generational growers who work tirelessly to bring the highest quality Florida Citrus, Florida Orange Juice, and Florida Grapefruit Juice to tables across the world.
Visit a Grove
When you’re craving a taste of Florida sunshine, look no further than our citrus groves, gift fruit shippers, and produce shops. At some of these locations, you might be able to tour a grove, participate in a u-pick during harvest season, sample some fresh squeezed Florida Orange Juice, or send a citrus gift basket to family far and wide.
