A seven-pound 14.64-ounce grapefruit in Louisiana has earned the title of the largest and heaviest grapefruit in the world, beating the previous record-holder, a seven-pound one-ounce grapefruit from Brazil that had held the title since 2006.

Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) commissioner Mike Strain today presented a certificate of recognition on behalf of the Guinness Book of World Records to the fruit's growers - Mary Beth and Doug Meyer.

Members of the LDAF Weights and Measures Division were on hand to officially weigh and measure the fruit. Its circumference measured 28.75 inches (73 cm).

Additionally, LDAF says its employees were able to provide the official equipment to document the Louisiana-grown grapefruit.

According to the department, Meyer recalls the moment he found the large fruit.

“My grandchildren created a fairy garden at the base of the tree. One day, my grandson noticed the oversized grapefruit growing. At that point, we really started paying attention and monitoring its development."

“This experience will always be a special memory for us and our grandchildren.”

Strain also holds his relation to the giant grapefruit in high regard.

“It’s not every day you get to present someone with a world record title,” he comments.

"We congratulate the Meyer’s for their achievement and especially for getting the grandkids involved and teaching them how to garden!”

Licensed surveyors and horticulturists were also on hand to inspect the physical condition of the grapefruit.

The LDAF provided an official notice of an inspection document to the Guinness Book of World Records.