US: Florida supply of fly-free honey tangerine down 40 percent

The season for California Halos, Cuties, Satsumas and other tangerines is in full swing at the moment. “For supply of honey tangerines, we depend on Florida”, says JB Cutsinger from International Citrus and Produce. “Florida’s crop is way off this year with production of ‘fly-free’ fruit being 40 to 50 percent lower.

The requirement of a fly-free certificate is one of the challenges of importing citrus fruit from Florida. “The certificate adds to the expense, but it is important since California is a significant citrus growing state itself”, said Cutsinger. “This year, far fewer growers are certifying their crops to be fly-free as the expense is considerably higher. Citrus greening has taken a lot of trees out of production, which means less product for California”, Cutsinger said.

“Demand for honey tangerines is very good and lower supplies are driving up prices. The bigger honey tangerines are anywhere from $36 to $40 for a 38 lbs. carton. The 80s are going $34 - $38. Compared to last year, the market is a lot stronger”, commented Cutsinger. International Citrus and Produce mainly distributes the honey tangerine to grocery chain stores and wholesalers in Northern California.

Another challenge for the industry is the regulations that trucking companies have to comply with. This includes, but is not limited to restrictions on the emissions of trucks. It has resulted in fewer trucks on the road, which affects shipping volumes.

For more information:
JB Cutsinger
International Citrus and Produce
jbc@icproduce.com
www.internationalcitrusandproduce.com