Over 300 companies from Germany's beverage sector have united to sign an open letter opposing the German government's proposed sugar tax on drinks. The collective stance reflects significant industry concern regarding the potential implementation of this tax, which aims to address public health issues related to sugar consumption. The letter emphasizes the industry's position against the introduction of such a tax in Germany.

So Good So You (SGSY), a Minneapolis-based wellness brand recognized as the leading U.S. wellness shot brand, has appointed Jennifer Jorgensen as CEO. Jorgensen brings extensive experience in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector. The company is known for its innovative refrigerated wellness shots and functional beverages, aiming to enhance consumer health and wellness through its product offerings and strategic leadership.

Nutrabolt, an energy drink and supplements company, has selected investment banks to guide its initial public offering (IPO), which may generate up to $1 billion. This decision comes as the company seeks to expand its market presence and capitalize on the growing demand for energy products. The IPO process is expected to attract significant investor interest, reflecting Nutrabolt's potential for growth in the beverage sector.

Minute Maid has launched the "Brings the Juice" campaign to celebrate everyday victories, highlighting the small achievements that contribute to daily life. The campaign emphasizes Minute Maid Zero Sugar as a supportive beverage for consumers facing various challenges, such as awkward social interactions or completing overdue tasks. This initiative aims to connect with consumers by promoting positivity and resilience in their everyday experiences.

Juni has launched a trio of functional lemonade beverages that incorporate adaptogenic ingredients and contain zero sugar. These products aim to blend nostalgic lemonade flavors with health benefits, targeting consumers interested in wellness. The new line reflects a growing trend in the beverage market, where traditional drinks are being reimagined to cater to health-conscious preferences while maintaining familiar taste profiles.

Calabrian bergamot, traditionally known for its use in perfume, is emerging as a new food category. This citrus fruit, primarily cultivated in Calabria, Italy, is gaining attention for its unique flavor profile and potential culinary applications. As interest in bergamot grows, producers are exploring innovative ways to incorporate it into food products, expanding its market presence beyond the fragrance industry.

On June 30, 2026, the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service announced the deregulation of Soil Culture Solutions' CarriCea Carrizo citrus rootstock. This rootstock has been genetically engineered to provide resistance against citrus greening disease, also known as Huanglongbing (HLB). The decision marks a significant development in efforts to combat this disease affecting citrus production in the United States.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has approved the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget, totaling US$117.6 billion. This budget allocates US$175 million specifically for citrus research, aiming to enhance the state's citrus industry. The funding is part of a broader investment in agriculture, water quality, conservation, and infrastructure. This initiative reflects Florida's commitment to supporting its vital citrus sector amidst ongoing challenges.

NutraPectin is a health supplement developed by young scientists at the University of Pretoria, designed to address South Africa's increasing lifestyle diseases. This innovative product utilizes agricultural waste, specifically from citrus, transforming it into an affordable health solution. The initiative not only promotes health benefits but also emphasizes sustainability by recycling waste materials, contributing positively to both health and environmental efforts in the region.

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

Tradebe has acquired CitraSource, a producer of natural citrus oils and extracts, from IFF. This acquisition is part of Tradebe's ongoing growth strategy aimed at strengthening its Ingredients platform. CitraSource's expertise in citrus-derived products will enhance Tradebe's portfolio and capabilities in the ingredients market, aligning with their strategic objectives to expand and diversify their offerings in this sector.

Huanglongbing (HLB), caused by Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), significantly impacts global citrus production. The study examined the compartmental and functional responses of the citrus microbiome and resistome following the systemic delivery of oxytetracycline via trunk injection. This research aims to understand the effects of antibiotic treatment on microbial communities and resistance genes within citrus plants affected by HLB, providing insights for future management strategies.

Hesperidin, a bioactive flavonoid derived from citrus fruits, is gaining recognition as a promising nutraceutical due to its diverse health benefits. Research indicates that hesperidin exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential cardiovascular protective effects. Its application in modern health and preventive medicine is being explored, highlighting its role in enhancing overall health and wellness. Continued investigation into hesperidin's efficacy and mechanisms is warranted.

A systematic literature review and meta-analysis conducted by the World Cancer Research Fund International examined the relationship between sugar-sweetened and artificially sweetened beverages, as well as fruit and vegetable juices, and cancer risk. The findings contribute to the ongoing discourse regarding dietary factors and their potential links to cancer, aiming to inform public health recommendations and guide future research in this area.