The citrus season in South Africa has officially begun, with the official inauguration taking place last month. With navel oranges and new season mandarins arriving from the Riverland, the first fruit has reached produce outlets and grocery stores across the state. Citrus SA Chair Mark Doecke explained that the cold spring of 2021 resulted in a later start to the season in 2022. “However, that will translate into a crop load that is above normal and full of flavour,” he said. “With the first of the season navel oranges and satsuma mandarins being picked, South Australian citrus is now accessible and starting to come into strong supply.”
Angelo Demasi, CEO of the South Australian Product Market, said it was always exciting to see a new kind of locally grown fruit arrive at the market, as it signalled a change in season and a new line of local produce for customers to enjoy. “In South Australia, citrus has a gross revenue value of almost $388 million every year,” he said. “With a projected growth objective of $474 million by 2030, the industry is a key contributor to the local economy.” Clare Scriven, the Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, was on hand to cut the red ribbon at Barossa Fresh Nuriootpa, where former Masterchef finalist Callum Hann was preparing a citrus souffle.
A new blood orange variety, the Ippolito, is being cultivated in South Australia this season and could be available in stores later in June. Penny Reidy, campaign manager for the Pick a Local, Pick SA campaign, said the people could help SA citrus growers by simply purchasing citrus. “Citrus, which are high in vitamin C, provide a terrific immune boost over the winter,” she added. “Oranges play a significant role in half-time energy boosts for kids participating in winter sports, and mandarins are a great addition to a school or work lunchbox.”
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