The domestic Valencia crop is currently experiencing elevated levels of cosmetic scarring due to early season thrip pressure and wind damage. Imported oranges are also showing increased external scarring and lighter-than-normal color upon arrival. While these defects are primarily cosmetic, they may impact the overall appearance of the fruit. Growers are doing their best to keep these defects out of final pack outs.
Domestic
- Thrip damage is cosmetic rind damage caused by citrus thrips feeding on very young fruit shortly after petal fall; scars are often circular or banded and have a corky appearance
- Wind scarring typically appears as random scratches or rubbed areas on the side of the orange
- Early signs of decay are being caused by mechanical damage
- Bruises, punctures, stem punctures, clipper cuts, and rough handling create entry points for decay organisms
- Fruit may look fine when packed but begin breaking down days later
- While these defects can be found in both grades, they occur more frequently in Choice grade fruit
Imports
- Inconsistent color upon arrival is caused by several different factors
- Warm growing conditions
- Early harvesting
- Insufficient degreening
- Thrip damage is cosmetic rind damage caused by citrus thrips feeding on very young fruit shortly after petal fall; scars are often circular or banded and have a corky appearance
- Wind scarring typically appears as random scratches or rubbed areas on the side of the fruit
Please contact your Markon Account Manager for more information.
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