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Boosting sustainability in orange farming with carbon solutions

The agricultural industry is embracing regenerative practices to improve the health of the land, enhance productivity, and reduce environmental impact. In orange farming, techniques such as crop rotation, direct seeding, and carbon capture are revolutionizing how orchards are managed, promoting sustainability and boosting long-term yields.

By implementing these practices, orange growers can ensure the vitality of their soils and contribute to a healthier planet.

At the forefront of this shift is PES Carbon Agro, a key player in helping farmers, businesses, and communities capture carbon and implement regenerative practices that benefit both the environment and the economy.

Carbon capture: environmental and economic benefits

A key advantage of regenerative farming is the ability to capture carbon in the soil, which can have long-term environmental benefits. By increasing soil organic matter through practices like cover cropping and agroforestry, carbon is sequestered in the earth, reducing the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere.

For farmers, this process also creates an opportunity to participate in carbon credit programs, where they can earn revenue for the carbon they capture, creating an additional income stream while improving their land.

PES Carbon Agro plays a vital role in helping farmers optimize carbon capture through advanced soil management practices and monitoring systems, while offering exclusive access to a limited supply of high-integrity carbon credits. This approach supports farmers in achieving sustainability targets, generating additional revenue, and enhancing the long-term health of their land.

Sustainable farming: a win-win for the environment and farmers

The integration of regenerative practices in citrus farming supports the environment and offers economic benefits. Healthier soils lead to better yields, reduced input costs, and greater resilience against pests and diseases.

Additionally, the implementation of carbon capture strategies provides an opportunity for farmers to engage in environmental markets, earning financial incentives for their efforts to mitigate climate change.

As the world’s focus on sustainability intensifies, regenerative farming is becoming a viable solution for farmers looking to thrive in a greener, more resilient agricultural landscape.

The adoption of regenerative farming practices in orange orchards is a necessary shift towards a more sustainable and profitable future.

Through techniques like crop rotation, direct seeding, and carbon capture, farmers are improving soil health, increasing productivity, and contributing to a healthier planet. PES Carbon Agro is at the forefront of this movement, helping farmers implement these sustainable practices with measurable results.

Beyond orange juice: innovations shaping the citrus industry

The citrus industry is evolving beyond traditional orange juice, embracing innovations that cater to the growing demand for healthier and functional beverages. The development of NFC juices and advanced technologies for juice clarification and stabilization are driving progress in the sector, offering new products that meet consumer needs for natural, fresh, and nutritious drinks.

As consumer preferences shift toward healthier options, citrus producers are leveraging these innovations to provide high-quality, functional beverages that align with current health and wellness trends.

NFC juices: a key ally in meeting the demand for innovation and freshness

Non-concentrated juices are gaining popularity as consumers seek fresher, more natural beverages with minimal processing. These juices are made by directly extracting the juice from fresh citrus fruits, preserving their natural flavor and nutrients.

Unlike concentrate juices, NFC juices offer a more authentic taste and retain higher levels of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential nutrients.

Citrus fruits in the era of health and wellness

Citrus fruits are naturally rich in essential nutrients like vitamin C, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, making them the perfect base for functional beverages.

Consumers are increasingly turning to beverages that provide more than just hydration – they want drinks that offer functional benefits, such as immunity support, gut health, and energy-boosting properties. Citrus-based drinks are well-positioned to meet these needs, offering natural, nutrient-dense alternatives to sugary, artificially flavored beverages.

A recent report* highlights that the functional beverage market is expected to reach USD 213.74 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 7.49%, with the market reaching USD 306.76 billion by 2029​. This growth reflects the increasing demand for beverages that support both health and sustainability.

*Source: Mordor Intelligence

Advertisements for functional beverages, including energy drinks, sports drinks, and fortified options, emphasize benefits like mental clarity, physical refreshment, and enhanced performance, effectively capturing consumer interest.

Maximizing quality and efficiency in the orange juice supply chain

The orange juice supply chain is evolving with the help of cutting-edge technologies that enhance production, distribution, and sustainability. Automation, IoT, and data analytics are optimizing processes, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing waste, making the industry more efficient and eco-friendly.

By adopting these advanced solutions, citrus producers can increase quality, ensure sustainability, and meet consumer demand while minimizing their environmental impact.

Leveraging automation and IoT for enhanced efficiency

Automation and the Internet of Things (IoT) are revolutionizing the way orange juice is produced and distributed. Smart sensors and automated systems optimize every step of the process, from harvesting to bottling, ensuring that operations are more efficient and require fewer resources.

These technologies monitor equipment performance, track fruit ripeness, and automate production lines, resulting in faster production cycles and a significant reduction in manual labor.

Data-driven demand forecasting and smart logistics

With data analytics, citrus producers can forecast demand with greater accuracy, optimizing supply chain management and reducing waste. Predictive models use historical and real-time data to adjust production volumes and distribution schedules, ensuring the right amount of juice is produced and delivered to meet market needs.

Smart logistics systems also play a vital role in optimizing the transportation and storage of orange juice. By tracking inventory and transportation conditions in real-time, companies can reduce delays, improve fuel efficiency, and ensure that the juice reaches consumers in the best condition.

Energy efficiency in the citrus supply chain

Energy efficiency is a crucial factor in improving sustainability across the citrus industry. Advanced energy management systems are being implemented at various stages of the production process, from juice extraction to bottling, to monitor and optimize energy use.

Energy-efficient systems: optimize energy use during key stages of production and distribution.

Cost savings: reduces overall energy expenses by improving system efficiencies.

Carbon footprint reduction: helps lower emissions, supporting long-term sustainability goals.

A study* highlights that the integration of energy-saving technologies across industries, including food and beverage, is expected to drive substantial market growth, with the smart logistics and automation sector reaching USD 27.29 billion by 2029​.

*Source: Mordor Intelligence

The integration of automation, IoT, and sustainable practices in the orange juice supply chain is setting a new standard for efficiency, quality, and environmental responsibility. These innovations improve operational performance and support sustainability goals, paving the way for a greener future.

Big Data transforming citrus production for a smarter, sustainable future

The citrus industry is leveraging Big Data and Predictive Analytics to improve production, reduce waste, and enhance sustainability. By analyzing large volumes of data, these technologies offer precise insights that help optimize every stage of the supply chain.

This evolution drives higher efficiency and aligns with global sustainability goals, enabling a smarter, data-driven approach to agricultural practices.

Enhanced decision-making through predictive analytics

Big Data empowers producers to anticipate key variables in the citrus supply chain, from planting to distribution. Predictive models help optimize crop productivity, manage resources effectively, and respond to external challenges with agility.

  • Crop forecasting: Predict yields based on real-time weather and soil conditions.
  • Resource efficiency: Minimize water usage and optimize energy consumption.
  • Market alignment: Adjust production to meet shifting consumer preferences.

This data-driven approach fosters smarter decision-making and supports a more resilient supply chain.

Reducing waste and enhancing quality

Big Data analytics enables better management of harvest timing and logistics, reducing spoilage and ensuring high-quality produce reaches the market.

  • Harvest optimization: Identify the best time to harvest for peak quality.
  • Supply-demand balance: Reduce surplus by aligning production with market needs.
  • Sustainability gains: Minimize waste at every stage of the supply chain.

These improvements contribute to both environmental and economic sustainability.

Meeting market demands with precision

By analyzing trends and consumer behavior, Big Data helps anticipate shifts in demand, enabling citrus producers to stay ahead in a competitive market.

  • Consumer insights: Tailor production to meet evolving preferences.
  • Flexible adaptation: Adjust operations to market fluctuations in real time.
  • Long-term growth: Strengthen the industry’s ability to innovate and compete.

The global agricultural predictive analytics market is valued at $2.5 billion and is projected to grow significantly, driven by technologies like IoT, AI, and machine learning. North America leads adoption, while the Asia-Pacific region is expected to experience the fastest growth due to agricultural modernization​.

Sources: Grand View Search GlobeNewswire

 

AI advancing quality and sustainability in food and beverage

The food and beverage industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by artificial intelligence. This technology enhances operational efficiency and promotes sustainability, transparency, and traceability across the entire supply chain.

By leveraging AI, companies can optimize resource use, reduce waste, and ensure products meet the highest standards of quality and safety.

AI-powered traceability and transparency

AI is a great ally in revolutionizing the way we track the origin of ingredients, offering unprecedented transparency throughout the supply chain. Advanced algorithms help speed up the way tracking is done every step of the production process, from farm to table, ensuring that products are ethically sourced and meet sustainability standards.

This level of transparency builds consumer trust and aligns with the industry’s commitment to ESG principles.

  • Real-time monitoring: ensures products maintain quality, freshness, and safety.
  • Ethical sourcing: AI helps verify sustainable practices at every stage.
  • Enhanced visibility: supports responsible production and supply chain management.

Optimizing resource use and reducing waste

Predictive models powered by AI enable smarter decision-making, reducing waste and optimizing the use of vital resources like water and energy.

By analyzing historical data and real-time inputs, AI can forecast demand, adjust production schedules, and optimize inventory, leading to a more efficient and eco-friendly supply chain.

  • Predictive analytics: minimizes overproduction and resource wastage.
  • Smart resource management: ensures efficient water and energy usage.
  • Sustainability gains: supports long-term environmental goals.

A study* estimates that the AI market in the food and beverage sector will grow from USD 9.68 billion in 2024 to USD 48.99 billion by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate of 38.30%.

*Source: Mordor Intelligence

Elevating quality and safety standards

AI-driven technologies enhance quality control by continuously monitoring the production process. With real-time data analysis, companies can detect anomalies early, ensuring that only the highest quality products reach consumers.

This proactive approach reduces recalls and maintains stringent food safety standards, safeguarding brand reputation.

  • Real-time quality control: identifies issues before they impact the final product.
  • Food safety assurance: mitigates risks with early detection.
  • Continuous improvement: AI learns and adapts, optimizing processes over time.

The integration of AI in the food and beverage industry is a game-changer, driving sustainability, enhancing product quality, and supporting ethical practices. These innovations align with ESG goals, paving the way for a more responsible and sustainable future.

Elevating quality: the future of sustainability in food and beverage

As the world focuses on sustainable practices, the food and beverage industry is embracing green innovations that enhance both quality and environmental responsibility. Today, emerging technologies play a critical role in transforming how we cultivate, produce, and deliver food, driving forward a sustainable future.

Precision agriculture practices

The integration of digital and precision technologies is revolutionizing crop management through innovations such as irrigation systems, autonomous equipment, drone monitoring, soil sensors, satellite imaging, and variable rate application of fertilizers.

By leveraging data and analytics, farmers can optimize resource use and minimize environmental impact, leading to a more sustainable agricultural approach. This shift allows for enhanced control over every aspect of production, ensuring efficiency and reducing waste.

Optimizing crop cultivation

These technologies enable the targeted use of essential resources, such as water, ensuring that each phase of the crop cycle is efficient and environmentally friendly

Precision management helps in conserving resources and supports long-term ecological balance, making production more resilient and sustainable.

Traceability and transparency

With advanced digital systems, it is now possible to trace products back to their origins, providing detailed information on quality and sourcing.

As part of the survey*, professionals in the food and beverage sector were asked to identify which areas of the ESG landscape were most likely to justify an investment in technology or services. Respondents were offered a range of options, such as water and carbon footprint, labor practices, and ethical sourcing. The results were revealing.

Among the 10 possible focus areas, only one, the broad category of supply chain traceability and transparency, ranked among the top three for a majority (55%) of survey participants. For all other topics, responses were more widely distributed, with significant groups showing interest in a broad range of ESG priorities.

*Source: Food Logistics

Green technologies in the food and beverage industry elevate product quality and reinforce a commitment to sustainable practices. Together, these innovations help create a future where businesses can thrive while positively impacting the environment and supporting local communities.

World Vegan Day: Innovating with Citrus for Plant-Based Consumers

World Vegan Day, celebrated on November 1st, highlights the rapidly growing segment of vegan consumers. In the United States, for example, the vegan population has increased by 300% over the past 15 years*, totaling more than 15.5 million Americans following a plant-based diet. This group is diverse, and their preferences significantly impact product choices in the market.

*Source: TelmarHelixa

Consumer profiles of vegans

According to the article Consumer Profiling of Plant-Based People, the majority of vegans are women aged 35-44, often with higher education and income levels.

They prioritize ethical and sustainable food sources, engage with social and political issues, and are motivated by animal welfare, environmental concerns, and a desire for better health. This audience cannot be treated as a monolith; understanding their nuances is crucial.

The importance of labeling

Research* on plant-based food preferences shows that consumers who follow vegetarian and vegan diets often prioritize attributes like traceability and origin assurance, which significantly influence their purchasing decisions.

This suggests that while the term plant-based may seem neutral, consumers respond better to more direct labels like vegetarian or vegan. Brands looking to reach this audience must consider the influencers they follow and the media they consume, including popular documentaries and renowned chefs.

*Source: Plant Based Foods Association

Orange juice: a versatile addition for healthy products

In this context, Citrosuco’s orange juice becomes a key ally for companies developing vegan and healthy products.

With 100% natural juice, it adds value to food, beverages, sauces, and other products that cater to the demand for tasty and nutritious options. By providing quality assurance, traceability and sustainability, Citrosuco supports brands in creating products that meet vegan consumer expectations.

Lead the Charge in Carbon Reduction

Businesses in all sectors are facing growing expectations to embrace sustainable practices, and the food and beverage industry is no exception.

Beyond reducing waste and conserving resources, decarbonization has emerged as a key component of these efforts. From integrating renewable energy sources and optimizing transportation routes to investing in energy-efficient technologies and carbon offset initiatives, environmentally conscious approaches now encompass a broad range of strategies aimed at lowering emissions. By implementing advanced technologies and innovative strategies, it is possible to reduce the carbon footprint while improving operational efficiency.

PES Carbon Agro: Launch of the methodology

As a global leader in citrus production, Citrosuco is committed to addressing climate change. In partnership with Reservas Votorantim and ECCON Soluções Ambientais, we created the PES Carbon Agro Perennial initiative, which values Brazil’s native vegetation and highlights the role of perennial crops in climate mitigation.

Recognizing the need to reward environmental service providers, Citrosuco encouraged ECCON to expand the Payments for Environmental Services (PES) model to include productive areas, especially those with perennial crops. Developed by ECCON’s technical team, with contributions from Reservas Votorantim, the methodology allows rural properties to quantify and monetize their role in reducing carbon emissions.

The PES Carbon Agro Perennial methodology was officially launched during New York Climate Week, one of the most significant global gatherings on climate action. Being part of this prestigious event, where world leaders, NGOs, and civil society come together to discuss strategies for mitigating climate change, reaffirms our commitment to the future we envision.

This opportunity to present our methodology on a global stage highlights its capacity to adapt both national and international techniques to the Brazilian context. It enables farms with perennial crops to participate in PES projects, fostering sustainable practices that preserve native vegetation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The PES Carbon Agro Perennial initiative is designed to create a systemic approach that addresses the following:

  • Remunerating landowners who provide environmental services by generating or enhancing ecosystem services on their properties.
  • Meeting market demands for climate action, including GHG emissions neutralization, sustainable food production, biodiversity conservation, carbon stock preservation, and other benefits generated by PES.

Through a public methodology, in compliance with the public PES law, this is a nature-based solution that offers the market the possibility of offsetting greenhouse gas emissions with integrity and governance.

Learn more about the methodology here.

5 Food Innovations Transforming Nutrition

In today’s ever-changing global landscape, the food industry is experiencing remarkable innovations that are influencing consumer preferences and business strategies. Today, we are highlighting some trends to help you stay ahead in the market, focusing on sustainability and nutritional excellence.

Key Innovations in the Food Industry

  1. Sustainability and Zero-Waste Practices

Sustainability is now a necessity for businesses, not just an option. Advancements in reducing food waste, using sustainable packaging, and employing resource-efficient production methods are becoming more widespread. Technologies such as vertical farming ensure consistent, pesticide-free produce all year round while conserving water.

  1. Personalized Nutrition and Consumer-Centric Approaches

Personalized nutrition is revolutionizing how people manage their dietary needs. Advanced technologies make it possible to create personalized supplements tailored to individual health profiles, providing greater flexibility and precision in meeting dietary preferences.

  1. Food Transparency and Safety

Blockchain and AI are pivotal in enhancing food safety and transparency. There is a growing consumer demand for insights into the origins and production methods of their food, as well as its compliance with safety regulations.

Impact on Consumer Behavior and Market Strategies

The innovations mentioned above are transforming what consumers eat and how they decide what to buy. As people become more conscious of sustainability, health, and food ethics, they are drawn to brands that share their values. The food industry is rapidly evolving, driven by innovations that are shaping nutrition, sustainability, and consumer preferences. By positioning itself as a leader in food innovation, the industry can meet the needs of its global customer base and build enduring relationships based on trust and forward-thinking solutions.

Innovating for a Greener Tomorrow

The global food and beverage market is transforming significantly, driven by growing consumer demand for sustainable and socially responsible practices. Businesses are rethinking their production processes to meet new ESG standards, and companies like Citrosuco are showing how innovation can create long-term value for both businesses and communities.

ESG as a Market Driver

Today, ESG has become a fundamental obligation to ensure sustainability and future success. For companies in the food and beverage sector, it impacts everything from supply chain management to customer relationships. Companies that embrace sustainability are not only better positioned to meet regulatory requirements, but also more attractive to environmentally conscious consumers and investors.

We can illustrate this with our ESG practices, integrating sustainable farming techniques and social initiatives into our business, meeting the growing consumer demand while maintaining operational efficiency.

Social Impact and Business Growth

One of the key aspects of ESG is the social impact businesses can have. Our Nutrir+ Project is a prime example of how companies can integrate social responsibility into their operations. This program supports local farmers with training, resources, and mentorship to enhance sustainable farming practices. By investing in local communities, we strengthen our supply chain while fostering goodwill and economic growth in the regions where we operate.

This type of initiative is becoming increasingly important in the food and beverage market, as customers and stakeholders expect companies to deliver high-quality products while contributing positively to society. By integrating social programs into their core operations, companies can differentiate themselves and build stronger relationships with customers and communities.

Building Trust Through Transparency

One of the biggest challenges in the market today is ensuring transparency across the supply chain. Consumers want to know where their products come from and how they are made. We address this by implementing rigorous audits and certifications to ensure that our products meet the highest environmental and social standards. 

For other companies looking to gain a competitive edge, embracing transparency and openness regarding their ESG practices is crucial. It helps build long-term customer loyalty and provides a foundation for future growth in a market that increasingly values sustainability.

Citrosuco’s ESG Commitment in Action

Citrosuco’s commitment to ESG is reflected in the personal experiences of its employees, who have directly benefited from the company’s initiatives. These programs have positively impacted thousands of people in Brazil, demonstrating how Citrosuco integrates diversity, inclusion, and social transformation into its operations. Through these efforts, we focus on achieving environmental goals and also on fostering personal and community development.

As we move forward toward 2030, we are dedicated to furthering these initiatives, especially in promoting equal opportunities within the company. Our programs to prepare young people for employment aim to impart technical skills and nurturing good citizenship, ensuring they are prepared for a better future.

Through social transformation investments, we live our purpose: nourish life, living legacies. Discover the details in our Sustainability Report.

Access the report now

The Future of ESG in Food and Beverage

As ESG continues to shape the future of the food and beverage industry, companies that lead with innovation will continue to stand out. The integration of advanced technologies, sustainable practices, and social programs not only helps meet customer demands but also contributes to long-term business success.