Citrus

This book describes the citrus plant and its nutrients, nutritional value, and nutraceutical applications, as well as related biotic and abiotic challenges in its cultivation. Chapters cover such topics as citrus genealogy, production, and crop management; milestones achieved in citrus improvement; importance of weather conditions in cropping systems; effects of changing climate on citrus; and much more.

This book highlights advances in citrus production, focusing on horticultural and human health aspects. In contrast to most publications on citrus, this book discusses both citrus production and the effects of citrus on human health.

The book briefly explains the fruit morphology, anatomy, physiology and biochemistry, growth phases, maturity standards, grades, and physical and mechanical characteristics of citrus trees. It also provides the foundation for understanding the growth, harvest, and post-harvest aspects of citrus fruits. Insect pests and diseases, irrigation, nutrition, and rootstocks are also addressed in this book.

Asian citrus psyllid (ACP), Diaphorina citri, is an insect pest which transmits a bacterium, Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas), primarily through feeding in newly emergent foliage of citrus trees. This pathogen causes a disease known as Huanglongbing (HLB), or citrus greening, which has become the most debilitating and intractable disease in citrus crops.

When compared to other major fruits, citrus fruits have resistance to pests and diseases, a short growing season and productivity even under harsh environmental conditions. Worldwide, citrus fruits are well known for their nutrients-rich juice and medicinal properties. Juice extracted from citrus fruits is rich source of vitamin C and various antioxidant compounds that are required to sustain a healthy life. Fruits are consumed in raw as well as processed forms, and the pharmacological importance of citrus fruits are not only limited to its edible parts, but also to non edible seeds and peel that are also a rich source of bioactive constituents with health benefiting properties. In current fruit processing techniques the peel is discarded as a byproduct after extraction of the juice. Researchers and food scientists are now focusing on utilization of fruit waste/byproducts to use them as a substrate in food processing, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. Whole fruits, seeds contain important antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

This book provides a comprehensive overview of current scientific research on citrus juice and by-product technologies. It covers various aspects of citrus and its processing, encompassing biochemistry, advanced juice processing technology, and health considerations. The book also delves into testing methodologies for various chemicals, phytochemicals, and bitter compounds. Furthermore, it presents innovative and efficient methods for the detection, quantification, and removal of bitter chemicals to enhance the commercial appeal of bitter cultivars. A special emphasis is placed on non-thermal processing, exploring the multifaceted aspects of citrus juice processing, including by-products. In addition, the book addresses the safety aspects of processed juice and related products, a topic often overlooked in other works. It particularly highlights the packaging requirements for juice and related goods.