The Role of Oranges in Florida’s School Lunch Programs – How citrus plays a part in student nutrition and state agriculture programs

Florida Orange

Oranges are more than just a staple fruit in Florida-they play a vital role in the nutrition of students across the state and are a cornerstone of Florida’s agricultural economy. In school lunch programs, oranges and other citrus fruits are frequently featured, providing students with essential vitamins and supporting local...

Orange Juice Barrels and the Age of Pirates – The surprising role of citrus in preventing scurvy among pirates and sailors

Florida Orange

The Golden Age of Piracy, romanticized in countless tales, was a brutal era. Beyond the swashbuckling and treasure hunts, pirates faced a silent killer: scurvy. This debilitating disease, caused by a severe lack of vitamin C, ravaged crews on long voyages, turning strong men into weakened shadows. But amidst the...

The Economic Impact of Florida’s Orange Festivals – How local events celebrating oranges boost tourism and small businesses

Florida Orange

Florida’s orange festivals are more than just lively celebrations of the state’s iconic fruit-they are powerful engines for economic growth, tourism, and small business development. Each year, communities across the Sunshine State host events like the Florida Citrus Festival in Winter Haven, the Orange Blossom Festival in Davie, and the...

Florida Oranges and Their Role in Aviation History: Fueling Early Flights and Nutrition

Florida Orange

When we think of Florida oranges, images of sunny groves and breakfast tables often come to mind. But few people realize that Florida’s iconic citrus fruit also played a unique role in aviation history. From keeping early pilots nourished to inspiring experimental aviation fuels, Florida oranges helped shape the golden...