The organic citrus market in the United States experienced impressive growth in 2024, driven by rising consumer demand and increased interest in organic, sustainable food options. According to the newly released State of Organic Produce 2024, organic citrus sales hit $303 million, reflecting a 6.9% increase over the previous year.
In terms of volume, the category saw a 3.4% rise, reaching 106 million pounds sold. This performance positioned organic citrus as the seventh highest-ranking produce category by volume.
PRICE PREMIUMS
A standout trend in 2024 was the resurgence of price premiums for organic citrus. The report highlights a 69.5% price premium over conventional citrus, signaling that consumers are once again willing to pay more for products perceived as healthier and more environmentally friendly.
This rebound suggests renewed consumer confidence in organic certifications and an ongoing preference for produce grown with fewer synthetic inputs.
REGIONAL PERFORMANCE
According to the report, organic citrus showed healthy year-over-year volume gains in all regions of the United States except the West. The South posted the largest increase.
Sales volume in the South was up 9.4% at 39.4 million pounds, a rise of 3.4 million pounds from the prior year. Sales rose 12.9% to $109.6 million.
Midwest volume climbed 8.6% to 17 million pounds, up 1.4 million pounds. Sales rose 11.3% to $43.9 million.
Volume in the Northeast was up 8.4% to 22.3 million pounds, a rise of 1.7 million pounds. Sales increased 9% to $68.9 million.
Volume in the West shrunk 9.7% to 27.5 million pounds, a decline of 3 million pounds. Sales dipped 3.8% to $80 million.
MARKET OUTLOOK
The positive trajectory of organic citrus is a strong indicator of broader shifts in produce purchasing behavior, particularly among health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.
As the organic sector continues to grow, citrus stands out as a category with strong potential for profitability and consumer engagement.
Source: Organic Produce Network
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