California is seeing a strong lemon crop, as the San Joaquin Valley region of Bakersfield to Fresno is in the midst of peak lemon season. Two other major lemon-growing areas sit within the golden state; the coastal region, which supplies lemons year round and the desert area, which according to Lupe Guzman, of Allied Avocados and Citrus Inc., has completed their lemon harvest. “That area is finished with lemons now, some of the citrus out of there is tired and cheaper prices are coming from there.”
Pricing has been inconsistent, at best. According to Guzman, the California lemon industry had its best year on record through most of 2015. Things changed in late November as Mexico’s large lemon surplus led to a dumping of the crop, driving prices down.
“Prices have rebounded and with lemons we are seeing $20.00 to $40.00 for a
40-lb carton,” said Guzman.
The greatest demand for lemons comes from the food service industry.
“Lemon is considered a spice,” explained Guzman, adding that citrus is used in a wide variety of food items.
“Lemons are used in cooking; for lemon zest, in jams, marmalades.” According to Guzman, lemon is also a vital ingredient in certain carbonated beverages.
“Every single soda has citric acid in it, so there is a very high value found just in the lemon rind itself.”
For more information:
Lupe Guzman
Allied Avocados and Citrus Inc.
+1 805 797 4295