Florida Department of Citrus

Florida Department of Citrus

The Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC) is a state agency in Florida, United States, responsible for the regulation, promotion, and marketing of citrus products. It was established in 1935 and operates under the Florida Citrus Code.

History

The Florida Department of Citrus was created in response to the devastating effects of the Great Depression on the state's citrus industry. The agency was tasked with supporting and revitalizing the industry through various initiatives, including research, marketing, and regulation.

Responsibilities

The FDOC has several key responsibilities:

Regulation

The department is responsible for enforcing the Florida Citrus Code, which sets standards and regulations for the production, processing, and marketing of citrus products. This ensures that consumers receive high-quality citrus products and that the industry operates in a fair and competitive manner.

Promotion

One of the main goals of the FDOC is to promote Florida citrus products both domestically and internationally. The department conducts marketing campaigns, participates in trade shows and events, and collaborates with industry partners to increase awareness and demand for Florida citrus.

Research

The FDOC funds and supports research projects aimed at improving the production, quality, and sustainability of Florida citrus. This includes research on disease prevention, crop management, and new varieties of citrus.

Programs and Initiatives

The FDOC implements various programs and initiatives to support the citrus industry:

Citrus Advertising Order

The department administers the Citrus Advertising Order, which requires citrus growers and processors to contribute a portion of their sales to fund advertising and promotional activities. These funds are used to promote Florida citrus products and educate consumers about their benefits.

Citrus Research and Development Foundation

The FDOC collaborates with the Citrus Research and Development Foundation (CRDF) to fund research projects focused on finding solutions to the challenges facing the citrus industry, such as citrus greening disease.

Citrus Fruit Inspection Program

The department operates the Citrus Fruit Inspection Program, which ensures that citrus fruit meets the quality and safety standards set by the Florida Citrus Code. Inspectors conduct regular inspections of citrus groves, packinghouses, and processing facilities to maintain the integrity of Florida citrus products.

External links

• Official website

See also

• Citrus greening
• Florida Citrus Code