CITRUS growers were given their first glimpse of proposed national quality standards which could help guarantee a sweeter product for consumers.
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West Australia-based Helen Ramsey, domestic market liaison, Citrus Australia, delivered the yet-to-be published standards for juice content, sugar content and sugar acid ratio relating to oranges, mandarins, tangelo, grapefruit, lemons and limes.
Ms Ramsey said consumer research had led to the minimum standards based on what citrus eaters prefer.
It’s hoped a more consistent fruit eating experience across the lines might prompt a boost in sales.
Citrus Australia conference delegates were told the standards, which will be revised annually, will be retailer enforced, backed up by Citrus Australia auditors.
Ms Ramsey said the new standards may not affect a proportion of growers who already achieve the preferred juice, sugar and acid content levels.
