Sunburst Orange Gift Packs

Medium Super Citrus Saver
18 California Sweet Navel Oranges delivered to your door at no additional shipping costs. $21.95

Large Super Citrus Saver
24 California Sweet Navel Oranges delivered to your door at no additional shipping costs. $29.95

Can ship anywhere in the US including Military Bases...........Send a little Sunshine to Support Our Troops.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We have the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.


Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Navel Oranges A Great Value In More Ways Than Just Dollars

When people normally use the word value we tend to think of the price we pay.  But with Sunburst Navel Oranges they have value that goes well beyond their dollar and cents pricing.

We think that the value can also be thought of in the quality of the taste and the value that eating them can be related to their health benefits as well.

There’s nothing quite like a sweet and juicy Navel Orange from California. Especially when they come from Sunburst oranges.

What a satisfying, classic snack! No seeds. Vibrant orange skin that is not too difficult to peel, section and share. Healthy too! It is an easy to love flavor during the cold months that whisks your taste buds away to the sunny citrus groves of the San Joaquin Valley here in California.

“California? Wait, wasn’t there freezing weather this past December in California?” Yes, indeed there were several nights of temperatures in the high 20s (that was Fahrenheit). But there are plenty of Oranges already harvested and since Navels have a thicker skin and high sugar content they can handle a short freeze. We want you to know we are still picking great navel oranges from our orange ranch.

Still, there may be some damage to the late Winter crop that is still being considered. In the meantime – enjoy these juicy in-season navel orange! 

In season Organic and Conventional California Navel Oranges are beginning to taste their juicy, flavorful best – a balance of sweetness and acidity. The flavor will get even sweeter over the next few months. In your local stores you can expect sale pricing on loose or bagged Navels where you shop in the coming days. 

For the very best in Navel Oranges you will want to get a couple of Gift Packs from sunburstoranges.com.  Picked and packed by our expert staff and quickly ship USPS to your home. There is nothing that is more healthful and tasty than oranges from the our trees to your table.

In store you can find the juiciest ones by selecting oranges that are heavy for their size. Speaking of size, big to small, all Navel oranges are tasting good right now so go with whatever type is best for your snacking preferences.

All too often, we make weight loss much more difficult than it needs to be with extreme diets that leave us cranky and starving, unhealthy lifestyle choices that undermine our dieting efforts, and emotional eating habits that stop us before we get started. But there’s a better way! You can lose weight without feeling miserable. By making smart choices every day, you can develop new eating habits and preferences that will leave you feeling satisfied — and winning the battle of the bulge.

Eat Smart – Eat Sunburst Navel Oranges – the best value you can give your body.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Should Orange Replace The Green In Your Healthy Choice?

When we say that Orange is the New Green we aren’t talking about your neighbors likelihood to be running the local traffic lights.

We all know that adding vegetables (green) to your meal planning is good for you. Did you know that adding orange may even be better for you? What are some examples of the “orange” that you can add to your diet?

Sometimes your local grocery stores can begin to look bleak in winter, but there’s nothing drab about navel oranges, carrots, sweet potatoes and winter squash. There is a lot you can do with these nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables.

There is a lot that researchers are still discovering about the compounds in orange fruits and vegetables. The overall color pigments reflect the presence of beta-carotene, and not surprisingly, all of these fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of vitamin A. They are very good to excellent sources of vitamins C and K, as well as very good sources of potassium and manganese. They are also an excellent sources of other phytonutrients that show some antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, like lutein, zeaxanthin and lycopene. And those are just the ones we are familiar with; there are plenty of others that are still under study in these delicious orange color food sources.

You may have noticed that colorful cauliflowers have been available for several years, they have been a big hit with foodies. The orange cauliflower has higher than normal levels of beta carotene, a form of vitamin A that encourages healthy skin. 

The purple color comes from anthocyanin, which may help prevent heart disease by slowing blood clotting. Tests of the orange cauliflowers found that they contained 25 times the concentrations of beta carotene in normal cauliflowers.

A recent study at the Wageningen University Division of Human Nutrition in the Netherlands named Fruit and Vegetables of Different Colors and 10 Year Incident of Coronary Heart Disease studied whether the color of fruit and vegetables, reflecting the presence of pigmented bioactive compounds, may be responsible for the protective association from Coronary Heart Disease.

Their conclusion was that a high intake of all four color groups — green, orange, red and white — and especially red and orange fruits and vegetables may be protective against cardiovascular disease.

Here at Sunburst Oranges we have published several blogs that are related to the healthy aspects of adding more Oranges and Orange juice to your diet. Many current scientific studies are confirming the benefits of this practice.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Orange Pecan Pork Chops with Rice Pilaf Recipe

Orange Pecan Pork Chops with Rice Pilaf is an easy one pan meal that is brimming with flavor and color.

Ingredients:
1 (5 to 7 ounce) package of rice pilaf mix
1/2 cup of chopped pecans
1 shallot, finely chopped
1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
3/4 cup of chicken broth
1 tablespoon of butter
4 (1 inch thick) center cut pork chops
Salt and pepper to taste

Options:
1 cup small broccoli florets
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. In a 9" square pan, place rice pilaf mix, pecans, and shallot (add optional broccoli florets now). In small saucepan, combine seasoning packet from rice mix, orange juice, chicken broth, and butter.

Bring mixture to a boil and pour over ingredients in pan. Top with the pork chops, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cover tightly with foil.

Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 40 to 50 minutes or until pork chops register 145 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (pierce to center with a meat thermometer) and the rice mixture is tender.

You can brown the pork chops first if you'd like; reduce the cooking time to 35 to 45 minutes until pork registers 145 to 150 degrees Fahrenheit.

When choosing the shredded cheddar cheese option. Sprinkle cheese over dish just before serving.

Serves 4

Tested with both the Knorr 5.3 ounce Rice Sides Rice Pilaf and Rice-A-Roni Rice Pilaf 7.2 ounce box package.

Yes, you can replace the pork chops with one pound of chicken breast meat cut into 1 inch cubes for a healthier alternative.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy. Direct from our trees to your home.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Will CA Almond Growers Lessons Apply To Orange Growers?

Being a farmers is a tough way to earn a living. You have to rely on many factors that are beyond your control. These can be weather, disease and market forces to name just a few.

If we look at the recent (December 2013) cold snap and freeze the citrus growers in California went through we can see how an event beyond control had a serious effect on their bottom line.  As the citrus trade organizations have tallied the damage to the crops they measure the loss at nearly a half a billion dollars.

The California Almond Growers are facing many decisions that relates to the drought conditions facing California farmers. With California's agricultural heartland effected by drought, almond farmers are letting orchards dry up and in some cases making the tough call to have their trees torn out of the ground, leaving behind empty fields. 

There are no figures yet available to show an exact number of orchards being removed, but the economic stakes and risks facing growers are clear. Almonds and other nuts are among the most high-value crops in the Central Valley — the biggest producer of such crops in the country. In 2012, California's almond crop had an annual value of $5 billion. This year farmers say the dry conditions are forcing them to make difficult decisions.

Removing old trees is common practice. Almond trees remain productive for about 25 years, growers said. The state's almond farmers removed over 10,000 acres of trees in 2012, according to a report by the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Most were past their prime. No figures are available on how many orchards farmers are removing currently.

California Governor Jerry Brown declared a drought emergency last month, after the state's driest year in recorded history. The thirst for water has sparked political battles in Washington, D.C., over use of the state's rivers and reservoirs. This month President Barack Obama visited the Central Valley, announcing millions of dollars in relief aid that in part will help the state's ranchers and farmers better conserve and manage water.

As the drought deepens will Orange Growers have to decide which trees are the best producers and will get a share of the available water and which will be left un-watered.  There are active orange trees in some groves that were planted in the late 1870s. It would be a shame to have to let centuries old trees die to save others. Being a farmer is always a series a tough decisions.

Like all crops disease is always a problem.  Healthy trees are more resistant to disease. Trees that are water starved are more susceptible to both disease and insects. To protect the grove diseased trees may need to be removed to protect the healthy trees from the effect of disease or insects.

When the farmer’s yield is effected (cut) prices for consumers will rise. As price rise fewer consumers may buy the product and the lowered demand will affect the farmer’s sales. Seems like a Catch 22 to me.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Oranges – We Have Added Chocolates

As you know ( or at least we hope you do ) we have added Staffords Famous Chocolates to our Sunburst Oranges website. We have started with five different ( should we say they are wonderfully delicious ) selections to choose from.

Taste of the Valley
Our Taste of the Valley box includes the signature items of the Santa Ynez Valley. The box contains Dark Chocolate Red Wine Truffles, Dark Chocolate Lavender Truffles, our very own Ooey Gooey Bites, and our homemade Sea Salt Caramels. 1/2 pound box of Mixed Milk, Dark and White Chocolates

English Toffee
Our English Toffee is handmade using only the best all natural ingredients. This rich crunchy buttery toffee is hand dipped and then rolled in a bed of chopped golden California almonds. 1/2 pound bag Mixed Milk, Dark and White Chocolate

Nuts and Chews
Choose from a variety of our organic crunchy nut clusters including Spanish peanuts, California walnuts and fresh roasted almonds. Our creamy caramels are hand crafted from scratch using only the freshest ingredients. 1/2 pound box of Mixed Milk, Dark and White Chocolate

Chocolate Hedgehogs
These extremely popular and cute animals make for a great gift for kids and a fun surprise for adults. 1 pound Mixed Milk, Dark and White Chocolate

Assorted Truffles
These decadent truffles have a sweet creamy ganache center infused with either Santa Ynez Valley red wine, or feature other elegant flavors ranging from Mocha Espresso to French Lavender. 
1/2 pound box of Mixed Milk, Dark and White Truffles

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh and sweet gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Oranges – Controlling Weeds Saves Water

http://youtu.be/YoEKjY-yEcA

Did you know that controlling weed growth not only results in a healthier plant but saves on the amount of water you need to keep your crops healthy? Our recent drought here in California has driven home the need for near perfect weed control. Sunburst Oranges is aiming to do just that.

Proper maintenance is a key principle in reducing irrigation requirements in a landscape or agribusiness operation. Maintenance practices, such as weed control greatly impact the water efficiency of any landscape, as well as the property’s ability to survive a drought.

Other cultural practices that add to the efficient use of water by plants are periodic checks of the irrigation system, properly-timed insect and disease control and elimination of water-demanding weeds.

Eliminate weeds and keep them away with minimum time and effort by choosing the proper herbicide and applying it in a correct and timely fashion. This works for both grassy weeds and broadleaf weeds.

A grove without weeds is one where the water is only needed for the trees and not being used by other extraneous growth mediums. (i.e. weeds)

Farmers wear many hats to do their jobs, and one of their most important hats is their business hat. Growers need to pay close attention to production costs and determine where money can be saved without a reduction in product quality. 

They also need to reinvest in their operations to improve productivity and income. While most farmers would agree that water management is important for crop production, the cost of water is often small relative to the cost of other inputs, such as energy, land, and labor. For producers of high-value crops, which are sensitive to moisture stress, it makes business sense to apply extra water to assure maximum production.

In the upcoming years, citrus growers may not have the luxury of using as much water as they are presently using. Water has always been considered a valuable commodity in the west, but changes in supply and demand will likely increase water costs.

At Sunburst Oranges quality will always be the baseline that drives our business judgments, first and foremost. If our citrus isn’t the very best you can buy then we aren’t doing our job properly. Providing you with the finest in everything we offer is our JOB 1.

We have added a new video about weed control; http://youtu.be/YoEKjY-yEcA

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Oranges – We Think Chocolate and Oranges Go Well Together

With the theme “Chocolate and Oranges Go Well Together” we are in process of adding Chocolates to our website sunburstoranges.com.

But we aren’t adding just any chocolate. Not at Sunburst Oranges.  We pride ourselves on having the very finest Navel Oranges. Our Citrus is grown in the richest soils of California in the San Joaquin Valley.

We would accept no less than the very best in chocolates. We are very fortunate to have some of the very finest chocolate from right here in Porterville. Those very special chocolate confections are from Stafford’s Famous Chocolates.

Stafford’s Famous Chocolates presents a tempting array of luscious confections sure to please everyone’s palate. Their mouth-watering truffles, caramels, English toffees, creams, and countless delectable chocolates are handmade daily. 

Only the freshest and finest ingredients are used to create all of Stafford’s Famous Chocolates. Their nuts are locally grown, and the fruits they use are also grown right here in the San Joaquin Valley. Of course Sunburst Oranges are involved.

Much like Sunburst Oranges Stafford’s Famous Chocolates is a family owned business. They have two locations. Their original store is in the city of Porterville in the Central Valley of California and their newest store is in Los Olivos, California located on the central coast in the Santa Ynez wine country.

Here is what one of their customer had to say about their fine chocolates.

“I have never had chocolate like this before and I have had chocolate all over the world. Freshest, most delicious milk and dark chocolate. The Old Fashioned Pecan Turtles and their English Toffee are to die for. Would recommend Stafford’s to anyone. Prices are very reasonable as well. ~ 
Robert T.”

At Stafford’s they see a huge difference between hand-made and machine made chocolate. Factories that make machine made chocolate produce their chocolate by quantity instead of the highest  quality. 

At Stafford’s they pride themselves in knowing that their customers will be receiving their freshest, highest quality of chocolate where each chocolate piece is hand-dipped to perfection in small batches.

Stop by sunburstoranges.com soon and see the special chocolates we will be adding. You could say Sweet Treats are a one stop shop at Sunburst Oranges. 

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Oranges – Have You Heard of Orangeade?

We have all heard of and drank our fill of lemonade.  Did you know that you can make many different kinds of very refreshing drinks from fresh squeezed Sunburst Navel Oranges?

Of course the most popular is just the wonderful juice from fresh squeezed oranges.  If you don’t get your oranges from the very best source (sunburstoranges.com) you may find that you need to doctor the taste a bit.

Some folks just like to get a wide variety of tastes from any drink they have and here are a few things you can do with orange juice.

Outrageous Orangeade

Ingredients:
1 cup of water
1 cup of fresh whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups fresh squeezed orange juice
1 teaspoon powdered sugar
6 ice cubes

Directions:
Place water, milk, powdered sugar, orange juice and vanilla into a blender. Blend the mixture on medium speed for 20 seconds. Add one ice cube at a time to the blender until the mixture is smooth. Pour the smoothies into two separate glasses and enjoy!

Banana Orange Milkshake

Ingredients:
3/4 cup plain fat-free yogurt
1/2 cup cold orange juice
1/4 cup sugar substitute or sugar
1 cup diced banana

Directions:
In a blender container, combine yogurt, orange juice, and sweetener. Cover and process on blend for 10 seconds. 

Add diced banana. Re-cover and process on blend for 15 to 20 seconds or un­til mixture is smooth. Serve at once.

When you are looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends, a quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We have the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Oranges Honors Washington’s Birthday

Did You Know?

The Library of Congress says that as stated in the introduction, the federal holiday celebrated on the third Monday in February is not officially called Presidents' Day. Instead, it is Washington's Birthday. There was an attempt in 1968 to officially name it Presidents' Day. However, this suggestion died in committee. Many states, however, choose to call their own celebration on this day "Presidents' Day."

We know that with banks closed, no mail service and most government offices closed this day sure feels like a federal holiday. Well, officially it is. Today official holiday is the celebration of Washington’s Birthday and is not called President’s day.

So why do you find that nearly every store is having a President’s Day celebration or sale? Stores are always looking for any reason to have a sale and accuracy isn’t a strong suit when it comes to advertising.

Washington's Birthday was celebrated during his lifetime.

Many across the newly formed United States celebrated Washington's Birthday in the 17th century while George Washington was still alive. However, it wasn't until 1885 that Chester Arthur signed the bill that made it a federal holiday.

Cherries, Cherries, and More Cherries 

Traditionally, many celebrated and continue to celebrate Washington's Birthday with desserts made with cherries. Cherry pie, cherry cake, bread made with cherries, or just a huge bowl of cherries are often enjoyed on this day. Of course, this relates to the apocryphal story that Washington would not tell a lie when asked if he cut down a cherry tree.

Abraham Lincoln's Birthday is not a Federal Holiday

Even though many states celebrate Abraham Lincoln's birthday concurrently with Washington's birthday, it is not a federally designated holiday.

The Reading of Washington's Farewell Address

On February 22nd of almost every year since 1888, Washington's Farewell Address has been read in the US Senate. While this does not happen on Presidents' Day, it is an annual celebration of Washington's Birthday that stems from 1862 when the Address was read as a way to boost morale during the Civil War.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Orange Gift Packs

Medium Super Citrus Saver
18 California Sweet Navel Oranges delivered to your door at no additional shipping costs. $21.95

Large Super Citrus Saver
24 California Sweet Navel Oranges delivered to your door at no additional shipping costs. $29.95

Can ship anywhere in the US including Military Bases...........Send a little Sunshine to Support Our Troops.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We have the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.


Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Oranges – Has Fresh Navel Orange Gift Baskets

I have to admit that the title of this blog isn’t the whole truth. Sunburst Oranges – Has Fresh Navel Orange Gift Baskets.  Sunburst does have fresh navel oranges. In point of fact Sunburst Oranges sunburstoranges.com has the finest in fresh navel oranges. What we are missing is the baskets part of that.  Our oranges come in United States Postal Service Priority boxes and not in baskets.

Why do we do it that way?  That is a very simple answer… to save you money.  Yes, we could have a basket ($) with fancy tissue paper wrapping every orange ($) placed in a gift wrapped box ($) and shipped in even a bigger and heavier shipping box (even more $).  But ask yourself if you are looking to buy the very best in fresh navel oranges what is it you really want… the fancy packaging or the sweet juicy (run down your chin as you eat) orange?

So here is an idea if you just must have the extra “fluff” with your oranges we have a plan for you.

Step Number One; go to our website sunburstoranges.com and order those fresh ripe juicy navel oranges at a great price and delivered quickly by USPS Priority mail. Shipping included in the price.

Step Number Two; go to your local Michaels Craft Store (actually any good craft store will work) and buy a nice gift basket and some fancy green cellulose grass, green tissue and stuffing. Head back to your home and get ready to arrange your gift basket.

Step Number Three; (and I might add the most important) open our Sunburst Navel Orange USPS box and enjoy the fresh Sunburst Navel Oranges.

Step Number Four; What you do with the leftover, unused gift basket is up to you.  You could keep it and use it again for your next order of Sunburst Navel Oranges. Being from California we think recycling is important.

So while you need to handle the “Gift Basket” part of our blog title we are there to handle the Fresh Navel Orange side of our title.

Our largest Gift Pack (and most economical, I might add) is the Large Super Citrus Saver which comes with 24 Sweet California grown Navel Oranges delivered to your door by USPS at no additional shipping costs for just $29.95.

So I guess we need to set the record straight.  The correct title of this blog should have read:

Sunburst Oranges – Has Fresh Navel Orange Gift Packs

The difference between “Basket” and “Pack” is an important one and we always want to get it right so please know we are selling sweet navel oranges and it is Michaels Craft Stores that sell the gift baskets.

Fresh Navel Oranges hand-picked from our orange trees and quickly delivered right to your home.

When you are looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends, a quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We have the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Oranges – Oranges and Agriculture Help Drive California’s Economy

California's economy is the 12th largest economy in the world if the states of the U.S. were compared with other countries.

As of 2012, the gross state product is about $2.0 trillion, which is 12.9% of the United States gross domestic product California's GDP growth rate accelerated to 3.5% in 2012 after having grown 1.2% in 2011 and 0.3% in 2010.

Agriculture is a significant element of the state's economy and California leads the nation in the production of fruits, vegetables, wines and nuts. The state's most valuable crops are nuts, grapes, cotton, flowers, and oranges. California produces the major share of U.S. domestic wine. Dairy products contribute the single largest share of farm income. California's farms are highly productive as a result of good soil, a long growing season, the use of modern agricultural methods and extensive irrigation. Irrigation is critical since the long dry summers would not allow most crops to grow here--California Indians had almost no agriculture because of this. Extensive and expensive irrigation systems including furrow "gravity" irrigation, sprinkler and Drip irrigation systems have been developed to supply the extensive irrigation needs of California. Illegal immigration to the United States in part used to harvest California's extensive crops has led to California having an over 3 million illegal immigrants which almost never pay enough taxes to pay for their extensive use of public services.

Early farming in the state was primarily concentrated near the coast, and the Sacramento – San Joaquin River Delta in the Central Valley. Winter wheat was an early crop that grew well without irrigation if planted in the fall and harvested in the spring. By the 1880s extensive grape fields for producing wine were being planted in many areas in California. Many of the vine stock originally came from France and other parts of Europe. Starting in the late 1880s, Chinese workers and other laborers were used to construct hundreds of miles of levees throughout the Sacramento – San Joaquin River Delta's waterways in an effort to control flooding, reclaim and preserve flooded land that could be converted into farmland. This area now often grows extensive rice crops. Subsequent irrigation projects have brought many more parts of the Central Valley into productive agriculture use. The Central Valley Project, formed in 1935 to redistribute water from northern California to the Central valley and Southern California helped develop more of the Central Valley. Water for agricultural and municipal purposes was captured in the spring from snow melt in the Sierra Nevada (U.S.) and stored for later irrigation use with an extensive system of dams and canals. The even larger California State Water Project was formed in the 1950s as part of the California Aqueduct and its ancillary dams. The California Aqueduct, developed at the cost of several billion dollars, helps store and transport water from Northern California to the California Central Valley and the Los Angeles area. The Colorado River Aqueduct delivers water from the Colorado River to the Imperial Valley of California area and since 1905 the Los Angeles Aqueduct delivers water over the Sierra Nevada (U.S.) from the Owens Valley to the Los Angeles area. One of the state's most acute problems is its appetite for water. The once-fertile Owens Valley is now nearly arid, its waters diverted to Los Angeles 175 mi away. In the extensive fields of the Imperial Valley, irrigation is facilitated in part by the All-American Canal — part of the Colorado River Aqueduct project. In the Central Valley the main water problem is one of poor water distribution and inadequate supplies of water for traditional irrigation systems, an imbalance lessened by the vast Central Valley project.

When you are looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends, a quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We have the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Orange, Carrot and Jell-O Salad Recipe

Are you looking for a fun and tasty way to add fruit and vegetables to you children’s diet? Here is a great way.  Try your kids out on our Sunburst Orange, Carrot and Jell-O Salad. Whatever you do don’t call it a salad or tell them it is healthy. Rather, tell that is fun and tasty.

Ingredients:

1 Package; Orange Jell-O
1 1/2 cups boiling water
1 fresh Sunburst Navel Orange, segmented. 
1 tablespoon fresh squeezed orange juice
1 cup grated carrots

Optional
1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Cool Whip Dessert Topping

Serves: 8

Directions:

Prepare Jell-O according to package directions
You have two options at this point to make a molded dessert or a tossed salad.

Tossed Salad
Chill the Jell-O in a shallow pan and chill until set in refrigerator, after set (about four hours) slice the Jell-O into small cubes. Slice the orange segments into thirds. Combined orange, carrots with Jell-O cubes in a glass bowl and toss contents.  (A common variation is to mix some of the Cool Whip in the mixture) Chill in refrigerator for 30 minutes. Just prior to serving sprinkle with the fresh orange juice (add nuts, optional) and top with dollops of Cool Whip. 

Jell-O Mold
Follow package directions to start the Jell-O. Put the bowl in the refrigerator until the gelatin thickens. This will take approximately 90 minutes, and the gelatin will have the consistency of unbeaten egg whites. Select your favorite Jell-O mold. Pour Jell-O mixture into the mold. Combine oranges segments, (Slice into thirds), orange juice with carrots (optional nuts) and distribute evenly into the mold. Take care not to add extra liquid with the fruit. This could prevent the gelatin from setting. Return the mold of gelatin and fruit to the refrigerator until the gelatin sets completely. This will take about 4 hours.

Serve and enjoy.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Oranges – Take a Pill or Eat an Orange?

Reading the following blog post should help you understand why eating a whole orange is better than just popping regular over the counter vitamin pills and supplements.

During recent studies food scientists have identified why eating an orange is much better for you than simply popping a vitamin C or other pills.

Researchers at Brigham Young University, in Utah, have found it is the unique mix of antioxidants that work much more effectively together than they do separately.

Antioxidants slow the ageing process of cells, protect them against cancer and may help ward off heart disease, although the evidence for the last is contested. If the ageing process in your cells is slowed the overall ageing and debilitation of the body is also retarded.

Tory Parker, assistant professor of nutrition, dietetics and food science, said: "There's something about an orange that's better than taking a vitamin C capsule, and that's really what we're trying to figure out.  "We think it's the particular mixture of antioxidants in an orange that makes it so good for you."

He and his colleagues examined whether "phenolic compounds" found in oranges – these bio-chemicals that are known to have antioxidant and antimicrobial qualities - worked in "synergy" with each other.

These same phenolic compounds are used by plants to protect themselves from decay and biological attack.

The team concluded their theory was "true".

Prof Parker said: "Fruit should be your dessert – remember, before cookies, candy and other sugary snacks became so widespread, the eating of fruits was our sweets or the dessert course." A habit we should try to get back to.

This research has been published in The Journal of Food Science.

Part of research into most commercial vitamins efficacy shows that getting your vitamins from foods results in the vitamin compounds being retained and used by your body rather than just being excreted.

When you are looking for a very healthy gift for business associates, family or friends, a quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We have the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Simply Sunburst Gift Pack

12 California Sweet Navel Oranges packed in a gift box for $10.95 plus shipping charges (varies by destination)

Sunburst has over 70 years of experience in the Citrus Industry. As a grower, packer and servicer, We strive for perfection and satisfaction on every shipment from our home to yours. Our Citrus is grown in the richest soils of California in the San Joaquin Valley.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We have the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Recent Weather Has Affected San Joaquin Valley Citrus

In early December, the San Joaquin Valley citrus industry was hit with seven consecutive nights of subfreezing temperatures. The event may have concluded in mid-December, but the industry's battle against Mother Nature continued through early January.

SJV citrus growers said that continuous cold mornings have required extensive use of frost-protection devices. Mandarin producers used wind machines for at least five hours per night in order to raise grove temperatures following the freeze event. The more cold-tolerant Navel variety incurred less damage, although producers ran wind machines an average of 20 hours in the days following the main freeze event.

In summary, California Citrus Mutual estimates that the Valley citrus growers have collectively spent $49 million to protect the 2013-14 crop.

Production in other major citrus-producing counties, such as Ventura, Riverside, Imperial and Monterey, has not been affected by cold temperatures season-to-date.

In the San Joaquin Valley, however, freeze damage has become evident.  Specifically, Kern County has seen a greater degree of damage than other areas in the valley. This is attributed to the early timing of the freeze event and the level of volume still on the trees at the time.

As was originally anticipated, a comprehensive industry survey reflects significant damage to the valley's Mandarin crop. At the time of the freeze, approximately 20 percent of the crop had been harvested.  It is estimated that throughout the valley, 40 percent of the remaining tree crop was lost due to freeze damage.  This equates to a loss of 4.7 million 40-pound cartons and $150 million in lost revenue.

The more freeze-tolerant Navel crop is estimated to have incurred a 30 percent loss due to freeze damage valley-wide, which equates to 22 million 40-pound cartons and $260 million in lost revenue.

California Citrus Mutual currently estimates that the valley citrus producers incurred approximately $441 million in lost revenue due to freeze damage.

Consumers can, however, expect a shorter season for California citrus. Currently, the industry expects to continue shipping fruit to the market place through mid-May vs. a traditional availability that extends into July.

"The California citrus industry is known for producing high quality fruit," he added, "and that is a reputation the industry is going to lengths to protect."

Here at Sunburst Oranges we want our customers to know that we still have sufficient supply to meet their needs with the highest quality citrus and we haven’t raised our prices.

When you are looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends, a quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We have the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Navel Oranges: What Is An Orchard?

At Sunburst Oranges we talk about our property as being an Orange Ranch. Many times you hear the terms; orange grove or orchard.  Is there a difference.

If we look at a dictionary we will see several definitions about those terms.

or•chard  (noun)

1. An area of land devoted to the cultivation of fruit or nut trees.
2. The trees cultivated in such an area.

1. (Agriculture) an area of land devoted to the cultivation of fruit trees
2. (Agriculture) a collection of fruit trees especially cultivated

1. an area of land devoted to the cultivation of fruit or nut trees.
2. a group or collection of such trees.

orange grove (noun)

1. grove of orange trees
2. orange grove - grove of orange trees                
3. orchard, woodlet, grove, plantation
4. garden consisting of a small cultivated wood without undergrowth

Did You Know?

Orange trees can live long lives. The St. Dominic's orange tree in Rome, for instance, was propagated in 1938 from roots that originated 800 years ago. With proper care, orange trees can definitely last a lifetime. Oranges have a yearly cycle of growth, flower production, and fruiting.

Orange trees grown in the home landscape can remain in production for more than 100 years if tree is cared for with proper pruning of suckers and dead branches, regular fertilizer applications, and protection from freezing temperatures.

During summer the orange trees convert sunshine into nutrients for developing fruit. Fruits remain green until fall when the decrease in daylight and cooler temperature trigger them to turn orange.

This old saying seems to fit; A Rose By Any Other Would Smell As Sweet. So no matter what you call them having a place to grow oranges gives you access to one of nature’s miracle fruits.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We have the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500

Sunburst Oranges and Dark Chocolate Biscotti Recipe

Along with your favorite hot beverage, this biscotti surely will warm your heart.

Yield: about 20 cookies

Ingredients:

1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature

 1 cup granulated sugar

 2 large eggs

 2 tablespoons finely grated orange zest (from 1 Sunburst Navel orange)

 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice from a Sunburst orange 

 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

 1 teaspoon baking powder

 1/4 teaspoon salt

 1/3 cup slivered almonds

 1 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks

 6 ounces dark chocolate, melted (optional - for dipping)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a large cookie sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.

In a large mixing bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 to 3 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in orange zest, orange juice, and extracts. Slowly add flour, along with baking powder and salt, and mix until incorporated. Fold in almonds and chocolate chips.

Divide dough in half, and shape each half into a 2-inch-by-13-inch log. It may help to wet or grease your hands as the dough will be fairly sticky. Repeat with remaining dough, leaving about 3 inches of space between logs. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until bottoms are golden brown. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.

When cookies are cool enough to handle, cut them into slices using a sharp serrated or bread knife. Arrange slices, cut sides facing up, on the cookie sheet, and bake for another 15 minutes, flipping cookies half way through baking. Let cool, then transfer to an airtight container or zip-top bag for up to 1 week.

If you'd like to dip your biscotti, gently melt chocolate, adding a teaspoon or two of shortening if needed to thin it. Dip bottoms of biscotti in melted chocolate, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet until chocolate has hardened.

Are you looking for the perfect gift for business associates, family or friends? A quick visit to http://sunburstoranges.com can solve all of your fresh gift giving adventures. We sell only the finest selections and the freshest citrus you can buy.

Presented By:
Sunburst Packing Co.
180 South “E” Street
Porterville, CA  93257
559-783-0500