The global market for citrus products has recently faced a significant disruption. Brazil, the world’s largest producer and exporter of citrus products, is on track to register one of its worst orange harvests in more than three decades. Nearly 70% of global supply comes from Brazil, and the yield is expected to down by 24% this year. And that’s not all. Florida, the largest producer of citrus in the U.S., is also reporting reduced volumes. The International Fruit and Vegetable Juice Association (IFU) reports that Florida is down to approximately 17 million boxes, down from 242 million boxes 20 years ago.
The problems arose from a combination of extreme weather, such as flooding and drought, and a citrus tree disease that dramatically reduced crop production. The citric disease, called greening, is an untreatable disease caused by sap-sucking insects. The affected trees produce bitter, stunted fruit before dying off.
Implications of the Shortage on D-Limonene
D-limonene, also known as Orange Terpenes, is a naturally occurring compound found predominantly in the peels of citrus fruits, particularly oranges. It is favorable for use in many all-natural, biodegradable products, and is used commercially for a variety of uses such as:
- Flavoring Agents: D-limonene is used as a flavor enhancer in food and beverages, providing a distinct citrus flavor.
- Fragrance Industry: It is a popular ingredient in perfumes and cleaning products for its fresh, pleasant scent.
- Industrial Solvents: Due to its solvent properties, it is employed in industrial applications for degreasing and cleaning. It is a very popular choice due to its exceptional solvency.
With both Brazil and Florida experiencing a sharp decline in citrus yields, the availability of high-quality citrus peels has dwindled, leading to a noticeable reduction in the production of D-limonene. This has led to high prices and extreme volatility in the market. The shortage of D-limonene highlights the need for diversified supply chains and innovative solutions to address the vulnerabilities inherent in relying on a single source for critical industrial compounds.
Contact Us
Reach out to your ChemCeed Representative today to discuss pricing and availability of D-limonene. ChemCeed is also happy to suggest cost-effective alternative chemistries to D-Limonene. Simply send us an online Inquiry or give us a call at 715-726-2300 today!