Where Most Oranges Sold in the USA Come From
The majority of oranges sold in the United States originate from Florida and California. These two states are the primary sources of both fresh and processed oranges, contributing significantly to the nation's citrus industry.
The Dominance of Florida and California
Florida is the largest producer of oranges in the country. However, the state is primarily known for its juice oranges. Additionally, Florida is renowned for its abundance of citrus fruits such as lemons and grapefruits, including the unique tangelo, which is found only in Florida. The citrus industry in Florida is incredibly lucrative, valued at 9 billion dollars and employing approximately 76,000 people.
California, on the other hand, is the second-largest producer of oranges. Most of the oranges from California are fresh market oranges, specifically navel oranges. The state also produces a substantial amount of lemons, making it the leading state in the production of this citrus fruit. California's citrus industry, including species like grapefruits, tangerines, and clementines, which are mandarin and sweet orange hybrids, is estimated to be worth approximately 600 million dollars. In 2010, the orange crop was valued at around 600 million dollars, and California shipped about 87% of its lemons to other American states according to the USDA.
Other Major Citrus Producing States
While Florida and California dominate the market, other states like Texas and Arizona contribute to the national orange production, albeit to a lesser extent. Texas and Arizona also have significant citrus crops, particularly lemons and grapefruits. However, their contributions are smaller compared to Florida and California.
Arizona, like California, is known for its lemon production and is one of the top states in this regard. According to the USDA, Arizona produces 13% of the lemons required by the United States. These states also ship their products internationally, making the US one of the largest producers and consumers of oranges worldwide.
Oranges in the United States
The citrus industry, including oranges, is a significant part of the US economy. In fact, the US is the second-largest producer of oranges globally, known for both fresh oranges and processed products like orange juice.
The diverse range of oranges produced in the USA, from Florida's juice oranges to California's fresh-market navels, makes the country a powerhouse in the global citrus market. The combination of large-scale industrial production and small-scale farming ensures a steady supply of high-quality oranges to meet the demands of both domestic and international markets.
Whether you prefer a refreshing glass of orange juice, a sweet navel orange, or a tangy lemon, the oranges from Florida and California play a crucial role in satisfying these desires. The robust citrus industry supports not only the agricultural sector but also the millions of Americans employed in related fields, from farming to processing and distribution.