California-based Sunkist is expanding its production of organic citrus fruits, responding to rapid growth in the agricultural segment. 

The company says organics is the fastest-growing category in the industry, and increasing demand for organic citrus bolsters this trend.

Retail sales of organic citrus in the U.S. were up 14% in 2015 according to IRI Worldwide Data, meaning organic citrus is growing nearly three times faster than conventional citrus.

"Consumers are broadening their food choices, and we’re seeing that in the growth of organics," manager of advertising and public relations Joan Wickham said.

"With more acreage coming into production, Sunkist has a growing supply of organics to meet this increasing demand."

Sunkist offers a broad portfolio of organics including Navel, Cara Cara Navel and Valencia oranges, mandarins, minneolas, grapefruit, lemons and limes, in addition to a strong supply of conventional citrus.

"Sunkist offers retailers both conventional and organic citrus to meet expanding consumer demands," director of retail marketing Julie DeWolf said.

"We also offer retailers tools to promote citrus in their stores and drive sales, including materials that educate consumers about our growers’ commitment to providing safe, quality fruit while also preserving the land for future generations," she said.

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