We will do our best to answer any question you may have. If your question isn't answered from our selection of frequently asked questions below, please feel free to email us at info@citrus.state.fl.us
Florida Citrus
Where is citrus grown in Florida?
Much of the citrus is grown in the southern two-thirds of the Florida peninsula, where there is low probability for a freeze. After a series of freezes in the 1980s, citrus growers gradually migrated southward from central and northern regions, although Polk County in the Central part of the state remains the top citrus producing county.
When is Florida citrus in season?
Florida oranges are plentiful from October through June, although the largest quantities are available from December through May. Fresh Florida grapefruit is shipped from September through June, with the height of the harvest occurring in February. Tangerines, tangelos, and temple oranges are available from October to March depending on the variety. For a complete seasonal/variety chart, please click here.
What is the proper way to store fresh Florida citrus?
Florida citrus is not picked until it has reached maturity, nor does it ripen further after picking. Florida citrus always reaches your local supermarket ripe and ready to eat. All Florida citrus should be stored in the crisper of your refrigerator where it will keep at top quality in flavor and nutrition for up to three weeks. Unrefrigerated, Florida citrus will remain fresh for four to five days.
What should I look for when selecting the best Florida citrus?
When selecting Florida citrus at the supermarket, remember the saying "never judge a book by its cover." No matter how it looks on the outside, you can count on Florida citrus being flavorful and juicy on the inside. Even when Florida citrus isn't bright orange on the outside, the fruit on the inside is still deliciously ripe. The color of the peel (ranging from orange or yellow-orange to greenish-yellow) is simply due to Florida's subtropical climate. Small blemishes on the skin, called wind-scars, result from the fruit rubbing against the tree's branches, and do not affect the taste.
How much juice or fruit will a medium-sized Florida orange yield?
Medium oranges are ideal for wedging and juicing. Three or four medium oranges will yield 8 ounces of juice. Two medium oranges will yield one cup of bite-size pieces.
How much juice or fruit will a medium-sized Florida grapefruit yield?
One medium grapefruit will yield 8 ounces of juice and three cups of bite-size pieces.
What is the difference between white and pink grapefruit?
All grapefruit have a similar tangy-sweet flavor and are very juicy. Florida grapefruit varieties may be divided into two groups -- white and pigmented. Pigmented varieties derive their color from the pigment lycopene which has antioxidant properties; some studies suggest lycopene may help in the fight against certain cancers.
Where can I find information on growing citrus in my backyard?
County Cooperative Extension Service (CES) offices are a valuable resource for information on growing citrus. Every county in every state has one. Your CES will also help identify problems with existing citrus trees or fruit. For a list of Florida Cooperative Extension Service offices, please click here.
Where can I find information on touring a citrus grove?
For a complete list of Florida citrus groves offering public tours, please click here.
Grapefruit Juice & Drug Interactions
Is drinking grapefruit juice with all medications dangerous?
Grapefruit juice is safe to consume with virtually all over-the-counter medications and the majority of drugs. For further information click here.
How can I find out whether my prescription interacts with grapefruit juice?
The Center for Food-Drug Interaction Web site, www.druginteractioncenter.org, has a comprehensive list of drug interaction information. Please consult your pharmacist or physician for more information.
If my medication does interact with grapefruit juice, do I have to stop drinking it?
Not necessarily, often a there is a suitable alternative medication that does not interact with grapefruit juice. Again, contact your pharmacist or doctor for more information.
Does fresh grapefruit also interact with certain medications?
Potentially, yes.
Which drugs interact with grapefruit juice?
Grapefruit juice interacts with some immunosuppressants, statins and calcium channel-blockers, as well as some HIV drugs, antihistamines and certain psychiatric medications. Always consult your physician or pharmacist with questions about specific drugs.
Does grapefruit juice interact with over-the-counter medications?
No, it is safe to consume grapefruit juice with virtually all over-the-counter medications.
How does grapefruit juice interact with certain medications?
Grapefruit juice and fresh grapefruit contain a natural substance that suppresses an intestinal enzyme known as CYP3A4. The enzyme is responsible for metabolizing certain medications. When CYP3A4 interacts with the natural substances in grapefruit juice, the process increases the potential for greater absorption of some orally administered medications into the bloodstream. This process may increase the risk of potential side effects.
How much grapefruit juice does a person have to drink to cause a problem?
One serving of grapefruit juice may cause a potential drug interaction. For more information click here and contact your physician or pharmacist.
Will an interaction only occur if medication and grapefruit juice are swallowed at the same time?
Research indicates that an interaction may occur up to 72 hours after consuming grapefruit juice, though the degree of interaction may decrease over the time period. Many factors, such as individual health and prescription type, can influence the potential interaction.
If a person has been drinking grapefruit juice with a medication for some period of time should he/she heed the warnings and stop drinking grapefruit juice?
As with any medication, you should consult with your physician or pharmacist before you make any changes in your diet. Often there is a suitable alternative medication that does not interact with grapefruit juice.
What are the side effects of a grapefruit juice drug interaction?
The potential side effects vary based on the individual and the affected drug's side effects. Please consult your physician or pharmacist to determine potential side effects associated with interacting medications.