Citrus Production and Storage Conditions Citrus fruits grow between 40°N and 40°S latitudes in both hemispheres. Their homeland is Southeast Asia. These fruits thrive in tropical and subtropical climates. Scientists estimate that citrus varieties have existed for nearly 20 million years. After harvesting, citrus products should be moved to the storage area as quickly as possible. They must also be pre-cooled without delay. Each citrus variety requires different storage conditions. For best preservation, the relative humidity should be kept between 85% and 90%, depending on the product. Mandarins can be stored at 3–4°C for about three to four months. Oranges last longer and can be stored at 4–6°C for five to six months. Grapefruit can remain stable at 8–10°C for five to seven months. Lemons have the longest storage life and can be kept at 10–12°C for seven to nine months in normal-atmosphere storage. Controlled Atmosphere (CA) systems are very effective for fruits like apples and pears. However, they do not provide the same dramatic effect for citrus fruits. Even so, CA systems can offer an additional one month or more of storage life for most citrus varieties.
