2026 May Be Another Challenging Year for the Citrus Sector in Brazil

› juice news

Lithuania Introduces Excise Tax on Sugar-Sweetened Beverages

Lithuania has announced the implementation of an excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs), set to take effect on January 1, 2026. This initiative aims to combat health issues related to excessive sugar consumption and promote healthier beverage choices among consumers.

• The excise tax is part of a broader strategy to reduce sugar intake and its associated health risks.

• The tax will apply to a wide range of sugar-sweetened beverages, potentially impacting product pricing and consumer behavior.

• This move aligns with global trends where governments are increasingly targeting sugary drinks to address public health concerns.

The introduction of this excise tax may influence pricing strategies and consumption patterns in the juice and beverage markets, particularly for products high in sugar content.

Sparkling Tea Becomes Favorite Nonalcoholic Drink at Bay Area Bars

Unified Ferments' sparkling tea has gained popularity as a preferred nonalcoholic beverage in Bay Area bars, particularly among natural wine establishments and Michelin-starred restaurants. This trend highlights a shift towards sophisticated nonalcoholic options in the beverage market.

• Unified Ferments' sparkling tea is being embraced as a wine alternative in upscale dining venues.

• The growing interest in nonalcoholic beverages reflects changing consumer preferences towards healthier options.

• This trend may influence other beverage producers to innovate within the nonalcoholic segment.

The rise of sparkling tea as a popular choice in bars indicates a potential shift in consumer demand within the juice and beverage markets.

Strong Processing and Juice Prices for East Coast Apples

Apple growers and shippers in the Northeast are currently experiencing robust processing prices due to high demand in the local juice market. This trend indicates a strong interest from processing and juice companies in sourcing East Coast apples.

• Processing prices for East Coast apples are reported to be strong, indicating a healthy market demand.

• The local juice market is described as "very hungry," suggesting increased competition among processors.

• This demand may lead to favorable conditions for apple growers in the region.

The strong processing and juice prices for East Coast apples highlight the dynamic nature of the juice and beverage markets, particularly in relation to regional agricultural outputs.

Josie Beverages Launches New Line of Adaptogen Energy Drinks

Josie Beverages has launched a new line of adaptogen energy drinks in the United States, which are now available for purchase. This new product line aims to cater to consumers seeking functional beverages that incorporate adaptogenic ingredients.

• The energy drink line features ingredients designed to enhance mental clarity and reduce stress.

• Adaptogens are increasingly popular in the beverage market as consumers look for health-oriented options.

• The launch reflects a growing trend towards functional beverages that combine energy and wellness benefits.

The introduction of adaptogen energy drinks highlights the evolving preferences of consumers in the juice and beverage market towards health-focused products.

Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I Partners with Polytag to Transform Packaging Intelligence

Suntory Beverage & Food GB&I has announced a partnership with Polytag to implement advanced QR technology in its packaging. This collaboration aims to enhance packaging intelligence and consumer engagement.

• The partnership will leverage QR codes to provide consumers with more information and interactions through packaging.

• This initiative aligns with growing trends in smart packaging and sustainability in the beverage sector.

• Enhanced packaging intelligence may lead to improved supply chain management and consumer insights.

The integration of advanced technology in packaging could influence consumer preferences and operational efficiencies in the juice and beverage markets.

Jones Soda Projects Triple-Digit Q4 Sales Spike with Preliminary Earnings

Jones Soda Co. reported preliminary fourth quarter net sales of $11.0 to $11.3 million, reflecting a significant year-over-year increase of approximately 330%. The company also provided gross margin results as part of its financial disclosures for the full year 2025.

• The reported sales figures indicate strong growth for Jones Soda, signaling a recovery or expansion in their market presence.

• The substantial increase in sales could suggest heightened consumer interest or effective marketing strategies.

• This performance may position Jones Soda favorably against competitors in the beverage sector.

The significant sales growth reported by Jones Soda may influence trends and competition within the juice and beverage markets.

Jumex® Launches GoMix™ Gummies in Major U.S. Retailers' Snack Aisles

Jumex® is expanding its product line by introducing GoMix™ Gummies, which will be available at major U.S. retailers. This marks the company's first venture into the snack aisle, building on its reputation for real fruit beverages.

• Jumex® aims to diversify its offerings by entering the gummy snack market.

• The GoMix™ Gummies are designed to appeal to consumers looking for fruit-flavored snacks.

• This expansion reflects a broader trend of beverage brands diversifying into complementary snack products.

The introduction of GoMix™ Gummies by Jumex® highlights a growing trend of beverage companies expanding into the snack sector, which may influence consumer preferences and market dynamics in the juice and snack categories.

› citrus news

2026 May Be Another Challenging Year for the Citrus Sector in Brazil

The Center for Advanced Studies on Applied Economics indicates that the year 2026 may present further challenges for the agribusiness sector in Brazil, potentially affecting various industries including juice and beverage production. Factors contributing to these challenges include economic fluctuations and market dynamics.

• Economic uncertainties may lead to increased costs and reduced profitability for agribusinesses.

• Market dynamics could impact supply chains and availability of raw materials, including citrus fruits.

• The agribusiness sector's performance in 2026 will be crucial for the overall beverage market in Brazil.

The potential challenges highlighted for 2026 may have significant implications for the juice and beverage markets, particularly in terms of supply and pricing.

Alico, Inc. Closes $26.8 Million Citrus Grove Sale, Achieves 97% Agricultural Utilization

Alico, Inc. has successfully closed a $26.8 million land sale, which contributes to its achievement of 97% agricultural utilization across its holdings. The company, based in Florida, manages around 51,300 acres of land, primarily focused on agribusiness operations.

• The land sale reflects Alico's strategic management of its agricultural assets.

• Achieving 97% agricultural utilization indicates effective land use and operational efficiency.

• Alico's focus on agribusiness may impact the supply chain dynamics in the juice and citrus markets.

The developments at Alico, Inc. may influence the agricultural landscape in the juice and beverage sectors, particularly in terms of land management and resource allocation.

Florida Faces Smallest Orange Crop in Nearly a Century

Florida's orange harvest is projected to decline to its smallest size in nearly a century due to the ongoing reduction of groves, despite some improvements in yield. This significant decrease in production could have implications for the broader citrus and juice markets.

• Florida's orange crop is expected to be the smallest since the 1930s, highlighting long-term challenges in the citrus industry.

• The reduction in groves is attributed to various factors, including disease and adverse weather conditions.

• Improved yields are not sufficient to counterbalance the loss of acreage, indicating a critical situation for orange supply.

This decline in Florida's orange production could lead to increased prices and supply challenges in the juice and beverage markets.

Spain Dominates Orange Market, Turkey and Italy Play Supporting Roles

Spanish deliveries currently lead the orange market, with Navelina oranges being the predominant variety. Italy also contributes to the market with Navelina oranges, while Turkey primarily supplies Washington oranges.

• Spain is the dominant supplier of oranges, particularly Navelina variety.

• Italy complements the market with its own supply of Navelina oranges.

• Turkey's contribution mainly consists of Washington oranges.

The dynamics of orange supply from Spain, Italy, and Turkey can significantly influence pricing and availability in the juice and beverage sectors.

Spanish Farm Cultivates Unique Citrus Varieties in 'Garden of Eden'

The Todolí Foundation in Spain is cultivating lesser-known citrus varieties, such as Buddha's hands and sudachi, with the aim of promoting biodiversity and resilience in the face of climate change. This initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure the sustainability of citrus production.

• The foundation focuses on unique citrus varieties that are not widely recognized in the market.

• Their efforts are geared towards enhancing biodiversity and adapting to climate challenges.

• The initiative may influence future trends in citrus cultivation and consumer preferences.

The cultivation of diverse citrus varieties is relevant to the juice and beverage market as it may lead to new product offerings and adaptations in sourcing strategies.

Rockwell Automation Supports Tate & Lyle's New Plant in Brazil, focusing on Citrus Fiber

Tate & Lyle has established a fully automated facility in Matão, Brazil, utilizing Industry 4.0 technologies to produce citrus fiber from orange peels, aimed at the clean-label food market. Rockwell Automation is providing support for the operations at this new plant.

• The facility focuses on producing citrus fiber, which is increasingly sought after in clean-label food products.

• The use of Industry 4.0 technologies indicates a trend towards automation and efficiency in food ingredient production.

• This development may enhance Tate & Lyle's position in the citrus ingredient market.

This initiative highlights the growing demand for innovative citrus-based ingredients in the clean-label food sector, impacting the broader juice and beverage markets.

Want to dive deeper in citrus? Coming in early 2026: citrodex.com

› research

Apple Phenolic Compounds Enhance Dental Remineralization in Humans: A Multifactorial Study

The study investigates the role of apple phenolic compounds in enhancing dental remineralization, highlighting their potential benefits in combating dental caries linked to sugar-sweetened beverage consumption. This research underscores the importance of dietary components in oral health.

• Apple phenolic compounds may provide a protective effect against dental caries by promoting remineralization.

• The findings suggest a potential avenue for incorporating apple derivatives into oral health products.

• The study addresses the public health issue of dental caries exacerbated by sugary beverage intake.

The implications of this research could influence the formulation of beverages and health products aimed at reducing dental health issues associated with sugar consumption.

Comprehensive Characterization of Volatile Components Reveals Complexity of Apricot Aroma

The study explores the volatile components responsible for the aroma of apricot fruit, highlighting the complexity and distinct coloration of the fruit. It emphasizes the influence of Xinjiang's unique climate on the flavor profile of apricots.

• The research identifies specific volatile compounds that contribute to the aroma of apricots, which may have implications for flavor enhancement in beverage formulations.

• Distinct coloration in apricots is linked to varying aroma profiles, suggesting potential for targeted cultivation and marketing strategies.

• Understanding the aroma complexity can aid in developing new products that capitalize on the unique characteristics of apricot flavors.

This research may influence the juice and beverage market by providing insights into flavor profiling and potential product development involving apricot-based ingredients.

New Uses of Maple Sap Include Hydration Beverage for Cancer Survivors

Researchers are exploring innovative applications for maple sap, including its use as a hydration beverage specifically designed for cancer survivors. This initiative highlights the potential health benefits of maple sap, tapping into its natural properties to support recovery and wellness.

• A collaboration among experts in forestry, psychology, and microbiology is driving the development of this new beverage.

• Maple sap is being recognized for its nutritional value and potential as a functional beverage.

• The initiative reflects a growing trend of utilizing natural ingredients for health-focused products.

The introduction of maple sap as a hydration option for cancer survivors could influence trends in the beverage market, particularly in the functional and health-oriented segments.