The citrus sector has joined forces to launch an educational video game that aims to highlight the value of pure orange juice and the industry that makes it possible. Zumotron, as the game is called, the centerpiece of the initiative "Nothing more than juice. Nothing less than juice", has been presented to Valencia's Regional Councilor of Agriculture, Water, Livestock and Fisheries, Miguel Barrachina, with the aim of obtaining the necessary institutional support. The initiative is also expected to be presented soon to the Spanish Minister for the sector, Luis Planas.
Promoted by the Citrus Management Committee (CGC), Anecoop, Agriconsa, and Zumos Valencianos del Mediterráneo (Zuvamesa), the initiative has the backing of Valencia's Regional Government and aims to promote pure orange juice as a natural and healthy foodstuff, as well as the role of the juice processing industry as a key player in the citrus sector.
During the meeting, the president of the CGC, Inmaculada Sanfeliu, said that the video game takes a didactic and playful look at the whole process behind a simple glass of juice: from the fruit's cultivation to its consumption. The aim, she said, is to connect with the younger generations and debunk false myths about pure orange juice, promoting healthy eating habits based on scientific evidence.
The economic, social, and environmental value of juice
The juice industry is a key player in the citrus value chain, acting as a regulatory mechanism for the fresh market while also adding value to the harvest.
Every year, Spain transforms around 1.2 million tons of oranges and clementines into pure juice, using fruit that cannot be sold in the fresh market for various reasons, like their size or skin defects due to adverse weather conditions. This contributes not only to reducing food waste but also to strengthening the important environmental role played by juice. Everything is used; the pulp for the food industry, the peel for the manufacture of essential oils, and the leftover peel for making pellets for animal feed. A clear example of the circular economy.
It should also be noted that the citrus sector generates more than 280,000 direct jobs and business for some 300 companies with a total turnover of between 4,000 and 4,700 million euros per season.
"An attack on orange juice is an attack on a key link in the citrus chain and everything it represents: health, sustainability, and territory," said Sanfeliu.
More information and access to the video game at: www.nadamasquezumo.com