Yichang boosts citrus industry value by advancing deep-processing models
2025-12-10 19:12:57
By Yan Wanqin
In the first 11 months of this year, Yichang’s 12 citrus deep-processing enterprises processed 399,500 tons of fresh fruit, nearly 44 percent higher than a year ago. This reflects the city’s efforts to increase the output value of its abundant citrus produce by promoting deep processing and extending the industry chain.
An intelligent citrus sorting line is operating at Hubei Agricultural Development Group Three Gorges Food & Beverage Co., Ltd., where sorted citrus fruits are transformed into high-value products such as concentrated orange juice and NFC (Not From Concentrate) orange juice through advanced processing lines.
In the first 11 months of this year, Yichang’s 12 citrus deep-processing enterprises processed 399,500 tons of fresh fruit, nearly 44 percent higher than a year ago. This reflects the city’s efforts to increase the output value of its abundant citrus produce by promoting deep processing and extending the industry chain.
An intelligent citrus sorting line is operating at Hubei Agricultural Development Group Three Gorges Food & Beverage Co., Ltd., where sorted citrus fruits are transformed into high-value products such as concentrated orange juice and NFC (Not From Concentrate) orange juice through advanced processing lines.
The intelligent citrus sorting line at Hubei Agricultural Development Group Three Gorges Food & Beverage Co., Ltd. Photo by Zhou Chongyu.
"Our production line uses advanced constant-temperature pressing technology and can process 20 tons of fresh fruit per hour," said Deng Zhenghua, a production team leader at the company. He explained that the technology prevents oxidizing and preserves the natural flavor, color and nutrition.
The group makes full use of the whole fruit, producing essential oil from peels and extracting juice from the pulp. Pomace is dried to make dried orange peel and spices. The company aims for an annual processing output value of around 5 billion yuan (US$707.8 million) by 2025.
Technological innovation is key. Hubei Fomdas Foods uses intelligent juice production lines and AI systems to improve efficiency and quality. It also applies quick-freezing technology to enable year-round production.
"We store fresh seasonal citrus at -18°C and process it after thawing during the off-season," said Wu Chaohong, assistant to the company's general manager.
The extended industrial chain also benefits local farmers through cooperative models.
"We have a long-term partnership with Fomdas, with annual orders between 4,000 to 5,000 tons. Since the juice factory started operations this year, we deliver 70 to 80 tons of citrus fruit daily," said Zhao Jifeng, head of a local fruit cooperative.
Through innovation and integrated development, Yichang is turning citrus cultivation into a modern, high-efficiency industry.
Zhou Chongyu also contributed to this story.
The group makes full use of the whole fruit, producing essential oil from peels and extracting juice from the pulp. Pomace is dried to make dried orange peel and spices. The company aims for an annual processing output value of around 5 billion yuan (US$707.8 million) by 2025.
Technological innovation is key. Hubei Fomdas Foods uses intelligent juice production lines and AI systems to improve efficiency and quality. It also applies quick-freezing technology to enable year-round production.
"We store fresh seasonal citrus at -18°C and process it after thawing during the off-season," said Wu Chaohong, assistant to the company's general manager.
The extended industrial chain also benefits local farmers through cooperative models.
"We have a long-term partnership with Fomdas, with annual orders between 4,000 to 5,000 tons. Since the juice factory started operations this year, we deliver 70 to 80 tons of citrus fruit daily," said Zhao Jifeng, head of a local fruit cooperative.
Through innovation and integrated development, Yichang is turning citrus cultivation into a modern, high-efficiency industry.
Zhou Chongyu also contributed to this story.
