Dive Brief:
- The citrus greening disease is contributing to a crisis in the global orange market, with annual growth rates declining an average of 7% over the last two years, according to Fresh Plaza.
- Combined, Brazil, China and the United States supply 45% of the world’s total volume of oranges. However, from 2010 to 2014, the average annual rates of orange production growth was negative 2.8% in both Brazil and the United States; China realized a positive growth rate of 4.8% during the same time frame.
- While leading orange producing regions struggle, China has increased the production of oranges and concentrate. The country supplies domestic markets, primarily, but that may change as global supplies face continued challenges.
Dive Insight:
Citrus greening disease has affected the processing volume in the orange industry in the United States and Brazil, which also impacts the global concentrated juice market. Concentrated orange juice has experienced a significant decline,according to Fresh Plaza. The demand for fresh oranges has slightly decreased as well.
Citrus greening disease has caused price increases for oils and juice concentrates. In order to overcome citrus shortages, natural citrus flavors are sometimes used. Manufacturers can also use pineapples as an alternative for orange juice in many recipes and formulas, as pineapples are both tart and sweet, Kevin Appel, associate culinary director, Sterling-Rice Group Inc., told Food Dive.