Within the Tongnan District of Chongqing, China, a transformation is underway, leveraging technology to elevate the lemon sector from its traditional roots to a dynamic component of the local economy. The district, with an annual yield of 330,000 tons from approximately 21,333 hectares of lemon groves, has historically faced challenges due to the fluctuating demand influenced by Chinese dietary preferences. The introduction of advanced processing techniques is now redefining the marketability of lemons, converting them into a diverse range of sought-after products.
Chongqing Huida Lemon Technology Group Co., Ltd. is at the forefront of this innovation, processing lemons into over 300 product varieties, including cosmetics, fruit teas, and various food items. This diversification comes as a response to the market's previous reluctances, particularly towards visually imperfect lemons. "In some years, many lemons were unsold, especially those that aren't visually appealing," shared Xu Xiaoling, the deputy general manager of Huida. The company's commitment to research and development has led to processing capabilities exceeding 200,000 tons of lemons annually.
The benefits of deep processing are evident in the experiences of local orchardists like Chen Yu, whose income saw a significant boost after partnering with local enterprises for the sale of his entire lemon harvest, including previously unsellable 'ugly' lemons. This approach not only mitigates income loss but also elevates the value of the produce.
Moreover, the initiative extends beyond Huida. Chongqing Mengtai Biotechnology Co., Ltd., for instance, specializes in extracting pectin from lemon peels, a substance crucial for various industries but traditionally reliant on imports. Mengtai's efforts to localize pectin production underscore the broader goal of enhancing the lemon industry's self-sufficiency and innovation.
The district now hosts 32 lemon processing enterprises, collectively holding over 30 national invention patents and developing more than 400 deep processing technologies. This burgeoning sector not only contributes significantly to the local economy, with an annual output value exceeding 7.5 billion yuan and creating around 100,000 jobs but also underscores Tongnan's commitment to agricultural modernization and rural revitalization through technological innovation.
Looking ahead, Tongnan aims to further integrate technology into its lemon industry, from cultivation to sales, enhancing productivity and reducing labor costs. This strategic direction not only promises to elevate the district's standing in the lemon market but also serves as a model for agricultural development in the region.
Source: Xinhua