New plant turns citrus waste into green treasure
2025-12-01 19:12:43
By Yan Wanqin
Zhijiang’s first deep-processing project for dried citrus peel has officially begun operating in Dongshi Town, transforming citrus juicing waste into high-value products.
Developed by Yichang Dalan Agricultural Development Co., Ltd., the project represents a total investment of nearly 36 million yuan (US$5 million). Inside the workshop, automated washing, shredding and drying lines convert citrus residue into dried citrus peel spice.
Zhijiang’s first deep-processing project for dried citrus peel has officially begun operating in Dongshi Town, transforming citrus juicing waste into high-value products.
Developed by Yichang Dalan Agricultural Development Co., Ltd., the project represents a total investment of nearly 36 million yuan (US$5 million). Inside the workshop, automated washing, shredding and drying lines convert citrus residue into dried citrus peel spice.
A worker processes citrus peel spice in the workshop."In the past, disposing of these peels was costly and often polluted the environment. Now, through recycling and deep processing, we’re turning waste into treasure," said Zhang Mengliang, the company's technical director.
He noted that the facility can process 10,000 tons of citrus residue annually. With technologies such as molecular extraction and low-temperature concentration, the value of products derived from each ton of residue can reach 3,000 yuan.
Citrus residue from Yichang is particularly suitable for producing high-quality dried citrus peel spice thanks to its thick peel, abundant oil glands and high hesperidin content. Through recycling and standardized processing, the residue is efficiently turned into useful products, extending the citrus industry chain. The plant also plans to add production lines for premium dried citrus peel and dye processing, helping farmers increase production and income.
An aerial view of the project.The company has already established long-term agreements with well-known condiment brands, ensuring stable sales channels. The project is expected to generate about 90 million yuan in annual revenue, contribute 2 million yuan in tax, and create 200 new jobs.
As a major citrus-producing area in Hubei Province, Zhijiang produces about 800,000 tons of citrus annually, resulting in approximately 350,000 tons of peel residue after juicing. The new plant not only solves the disposal issue but also promotes Zhijiang's citrus industry toward a greener, more efficient and fully integrated model.
In the future, additional products such as dried citrus peel tea and medicinal cuisine ingredients will also be introduced.
Zhou Chongyu contributed to this story.
