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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.

4G and Tech Innovations Are Changing Agriculture

The rise of 4G and other digital advancements is transforming agriculture, leading to more efficient, productive, and sustainable farms. By utilizing real-time data collection, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT), 4G facilitates seamless communication and data exchange between devices.

This enables farmers to access crucial information that improves decision-making and optimizes every step of the supply chain.

Inviting presentation: Connected Farm – 4G in Agriculture 4.0

With 4G networks, farmers now have the power to instantly transmit data from machinery, sensors, and drones. This allows for:

  • 📊 Real-time monitoring of soil quality, weather conditions, and pest infestations
  • 🌱 Increased productivity and sustainability in farming operations
  • 🌍 Reduced environmental impact through smarter, data-driven decisions

At Citrosuco, innovation is at our core. By partnering with leading communication companies, we have:

  • 📶 Installed 4G on 100% of our farms, providing the connectivity needed for digital solutions
  • 🚀 Laid the foundation for ongoing advancements, ensuring our farms stay at the forefront of Agriculture 4.0

Making Data-Driven Decisions 

The use of 4G in farming offers significant benefits, such as the real-time collection and analysis of data. According to a report from McKinsey, agriculture is being transformed by IoT and AI-powered technologies, which automate processes like planting and irrigation. These technologies also provide valuable data to help farmers make quick, informed decisions. This is especially valuable for large-scale farming operations that span across multiple regions.

Overcoming Obstacles to a Connected Future

4G is driving a revolution in agriculture, but there are still obstacles to its widespread adoption, such as limited infrastructure and software compatibility. In Brazil, where rural areas lack connectivity, expanding 4G infrastructure is a major challenge. 

At Citrosuco, we have taken significant steps to address this by ensuring that 100% of our farms are equipped with 4G technology. By partnering with major communication companies, we have implemented 4G infrastructure across all our operations. This connectivity forms the foundation for implementing other advanced technologies, enabling us to further optimize our farming processes through real-time data transmission and digital solutions. Prioritizing communication infrastructure ensures that our agricultural operations are well-positioned to harness the full potential of Agriculture 4.0.

4G technology is transforming the agriculture industry by enabling real-time data exchange, thus facilitating the digitalization of farming processes. With improved connectivity in rural areas and the integration of IoT applications, the agricultural sector is well-positioned to achieve efficiency, sustainability, and profitability.

This transformation presents new opportunities for us to boost productivity, streamline value chains, and ultimately meet the rapidly growing global demand for food sustainably.

Is there any difference between the freshly squeezed and the store-bought orange juice?

The debate between the benefits of freshly squeezed orange juice versus store-bought has been a topic of discussion for years among health-conscious consumers. As a professional in the Food & Beverage industry, understanding the nutritional value and consumer preferences regarding products like orange juice is crucial.

Study Insights on Orange Juice

A recent study published in the “International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition” compared freshly squeezed orange juice with store-bought orange juice from Spain, Germany, France, and the United Kingdom. The comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the key differences between these two types of juice.

Contrary to popular belief, this research found that both types of orange juice contain similar levels of polyphenols.

Polyphenols are natural compounds found in plants and fruits. They have antioxidant properties that neutralize free radicals and are associated with health benefits such as reducing inflammation and supporting heart health.

Freshly squeezed juice degrades quickly, resulting in a loss of its vitamin C levels. The squeezed one can reach the same nutritional value as store-bought orange juice within a week.

According to the European recommendations for daily vitamin C intake, men should consume 90 mg and women 80 mg. The store-bought orange juice meets 94% of this nutritional value!

This study found that the nutritional value of orange juice remains consistent, whether it’s freshly squeezed at home or purchased from a supermarket. Consumers can rely on packaged juice as a convenient solution that saves time and caters to their health and wellness requirements.

Nutritional and Sustainable products by Citrosuco

This study sheds more light on the existing concerns of people worldwide related to health. It is essential to clarify some common misconceptions about packaged orange juices.

At Citrosuco, we value innovation and sustainability while remaining committed to people’s health. We use every part of the orange to ensure that our products are 100% natural and packed with essential nutrients.

Our approach is a reflection of our dedication to environmental responsibility and providing quality products to our customers.

Unlocking Wellness with Functional Beverages

In today’s health-conscious world, the demand for functional beverages is skyrocketing as consumers seek more than just hydration.

Join us as we delve into the global trends shaping this market. Discover how Citrosuco is leading the way in delivering innovative solutions that promote well-being and vitality. We harness the potential of orange juice as a powerful ally in enhancing functional beverages.

Global Trends in Functional Beverages

Functional beverages have transcended their traditional role of quenching thirst to become vehicles for holistic health and wellness. Consumers are increasingly drawn to beverages that offer benefits such as improved gut health, stress reduction, and immune support. 

  • Gut health: Functional beverages with probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes promote overall well-being by improving immunity, digestion, and mood.
  • Stress relief: Beverages infused with calming botanicals provide a natural solution for managing stress and finding balance.
  • Immune support: Functional beverages containing vitamin C, zinc, echinacea, and elderberry help boost immunity, supporting preventive health measures.

Driving Innovation in Functional Beverages: The Citrosuco Advantage

At Citrosuco, innovation is at the heart of everything we do, allowing us to stay ahead of the curve with our unwavering commitment to quality, sustainability, and consumer satisfaction. 

We are confident that Citrosuco will continue to be a driving force in this dynamic and exciting industry.

Sustainable-driven consumers in the OJ market

In the ever-evolving orange juice industry, anticipating trends is crucial for success. Understanding changes in consumer preferences and identifying new opportunities is vital for companies seeking to stand out and thrive, maintaining a competitive edge and driving growth. 

Sustainability and market trends in the orange industry

In the orange industry, sustainability is crucial for meeting the growing demand for eco-friendly products and ensuring long-term industry health. According to the Orange Juice Market 2024-2031 research report, there is a noticeable uptrend in the demand for sustainable products, with consumers favoring companies that demonstrate environmental responsibility and ethical practices.

As consumers become more eco-conscious, they prioritize transparency and sustainability in their purchasing decisions, influencing brand loyalty. Additionally, technological advancements are reshaping the industry, offering new opportunities for enhancing product quality, efficiency, and sustainability, which are essential for maintaining competitiveness.

Adapting to market trends and consumer preferences

Our commitment to sustainability is evident in our sustainability report:

Environmental Highlights

  • SBTi: Approved emission reduction targets, endorsed by the leading global climate science standard.
  • CDP: Maintaining Leadership status with an A- rating, indicating above-average performance in the global food and beverage sector on climate change issues.

Social Initiatives

  • Initiatives and actions to promote the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
  • Investments in education projects, protection of children’s and adolescents’ rights, citizenship, entrepreneurship, and support for public management.

Governance Highlights

  • SAI Gold Level certification across 100% our own farms.
  • EcoVadis Gold Rating, recognizing our sustainable practices.

 

We are committed to leading the transformation towards a more sustainable future.

Digital transformation in the Food & Beverage industry

The digital revolution is necessary for companies aiming to grow and stand out in the competitive food and beverage market.

New technologies are changing how food is produced, distributed, and consumed. From e-commerce to automation, digital innovations offer incredible opportunities to enhance efficiency, sustainability, and consumer experience.

According to a recent report, the global food and beverage automation market is projected to grow by 40% from 2024 to 2027, driven by the increasing adoption of automated solutions to boost productivity and reduce costs.

E-commerce and mobile apps

Rising consumer demand for convenience and personalization is driving the adoption of e-commerce platforms and mobile apps. Companies investing in these technologies can offer personalized online experiences, increase customer satisfaction, and expand their market reach.

This approach allows companies to collect and analyze valuable data on consumer habits, helping them adjust their offerings and strategies to better meet consumer needs.

Blockchain and IoT for greater transparency

Transparency and product traceability are priorities for modern consumers. Technologies like blockchain and IoT sensors are implemented throughout the supply chain to ensure product integrity and safety.

With these innovations, it is possible to monitor every step of the production and distribution process, increasing consumer trust and ensuring products meet the highest quality standards.

Automation and operational efficiency

Automation and robotics are revolutionizing operational efficiency in the food and beverage sector. These technologies help reduce costs, minimize waste, and optimize processes, resulting in smarter and more sustainable operations.Companies adopting automation solutions improve their efficiency and increase their innovation capacity, developing new products and processes that meet market demands.