Sunkist® stories, articles & musings

When you see a bag of Sunkist Organic citrus in the produce aisle, you're seeing more than just a different label.

You're seeing decades of commitment from our growers, a distinct growing and packing process, and a continued investment in how citrus can be grown with sustainable practices while delivering the fresh flavor families know and love.

For more than 25 years, Sunkist has been committed to organic citrus, helping bring USDA-certified organic oranges, mandarins, lemons, grapefruit, and specialty varieties to shoppers across North America and beyond. 

Today, that commitment continues to grow, with new packaging, an expanding organic portfolio, and certifications that help tell the story behind the fruit.
 

Organic Isn't Just a Label

Growing organic citrus requires a different approach from the very beginning.

Our organic growers follow USDA organic standards, focusing on approved growing practices and carefully managing their groves throughout the season. Organic fruit must meet specific requirements from the field all the way through harvest and packing. 

That means organic citrus isn't simply separated at the end of the process. Dedicated procedures are followed throughout production to maintain organic integrity and ensure fruit meets organic certification requirements before it reaches consumers.

For many of our growers, organic farming is both a commitment and a long-term investment in their land, their groves, and future generations.

More Than Two Decades of Organic Leadership

While organic produce may feel like a recent trend, Sunkist has been involved in organic citrus for decades.

Our growers have been supplying USDA certified organic citrus for more than 25 years, with a portfolio that includes organic Navel oranges, Cara Cara oranges, mandarins, lemons, grapefruit, Valencia oranges, and more. 

That long history means we've had years to learn what shoppers want from organic produce while continuing to evolve our offerings through new varieties, packaging innovations, and merchandising programs. 

A Fresh Look for Organic Citrus

This season, shoppers may notice something new in the produce department: refreshed packaging for Sunkist Organic citrus.

Our updated organic packaging is designed to help consumers quickly identify organic options while maintaining the premium feel that organic shoppers expect. The refreshed look reflects the growth of the organic category and our ongoing investment in helping shoppers find and enjoy organic citrus with confidence. 

Whether you're reaching for organic Cara Cara oranges, mandarins, or another favorite variety, the goal is simple: make it easier to discover the citrus you love.

From Grove to Packinghouse

Organic citrus follows a unique journey after harvest as well.

Because organic fruit must maintain certification integrity throughout the supply chain, handling and packing procedures differ from conventional fruit. From harvesting to packing and shipping, additional protocols help ensure organic fruit remains properly identified and separated. 

While the process may look different behind the scenes, the result is the same goal Sunkist has always had: delivering high-quality citrus to families everywhere.

Why Choosing Sunkist Organic Matters

As a farmer-owned cooperative, Sunkist is uniquely connected to the people behind the fruit.

Our organic citrus program is supported by family farms who care deeply about their groves and are continually looking for ways to meet evolving consumer preferences around freshness, quality, and responsible production. 

When you choose Sunkist Organic citrus, you're supporting:

• Family farming operations
• More than 25 years of organic citrus expertise
• A broad portfolio of organic varieties
• Continued investment in sustainable growing practices

More Than Organic

Organic citrus represents a commitment that starts long before harvest. It requires thoughtful growing practices, specialized handling and dedicated growers.

For more than 25 years, Sunkist growers have been dedicated to bringing organic citrus to consumers who care about what they feed themselves and their families. And with refreshed packaging, continued innovation, and USDA certifications, we're excited to help even more shoppers discover what makes Sunkist Organic citrus special. 

Look for Sunkist Organic Cali Mandarins, Cara Cara oranges, and more in the produce aisle this season. Your next favorite citrus might just be waiting inside that bag. 🍊