The Citrus Code; Chapter 601 – 1949

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The history of the Florida Citrus Code begins with its initial enactment in 1949, as Chapter 601 of the Florida Statutes, in response to the significant economic importance of the state's citrus industry and the need to protect the health and welfare of its citizens. The Code established regulations and standards for the planting, harvesting, processing, and sale of citrus fruits, creating the Department of Citrus and the Department of Agriculture to oversee these activities through inspection, licensing, and enforcement. 

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Regulations were established to ensure that high quality fruit was shipped and processed in Florida.  Learn more about testing fruit for sweetness at the exhibit!  Every load of citrus is tested before it is either packed for fresh shipment or processed into juice,  Consumers are assured they are getting safe and a high-quality product.

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Today, Chapter 601 of the Florida Statutes, also known as the Florida Citrus Code, continues to provide the legal framework for the state's citrus industry, addressing everything from grading and labeling to the sale and transportation of citrus products.