Grapefruit
Grapefruit is an edible citrus fruit that is harvested fresh or dried. It is classified as a fresh fruit commodity in international trade classifications.
Prices, specifications and international trade for grapefruit under HS 080540.
Grapefruit Price
Published reference · Jul 1, 2026
Grapefruit is quoted in USD/t at ZAF. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.
Explore grapefruit pricesGrapefruit Exports and Imports
South Africa led reported grapefruit exports in 2025, at $140M.
Compare grapefruit exporting countriesGrapefruit Specifications and Quality
Grapefruit grading factors include Firmness, Skin condition, and Color.
Grading Factors
Quality assessment for grapefruit considers Firmness, Skin condition, and Color.
- Firmness
The fruit should feel heavy for its size and yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating juiciness and freshness; soft or spongy fruit may be overripe or past its best.
- Skin condition
The rind should be smooth, unblemished, and free from punctures, decay, or deep scars, which can compromise internal quality and shelf life.
- Color
Uniform yellow to pinkish-red skin color indicates good maturity and variety characteristics, though internal color may vary by cultivar; this factor helps ensure consumer appeal and consistency.
- Brix-acid balance
A proper balance of sugars and acids gives the characteristic tart-sweet flavor; lots with imbalance may taste bland or overly sour to end consumers.
- Juice content
Sufficient juice yield is essential for fresh eating and juicing; dry, pithy segments indicate poor quality or over-maturity.
Common Defects
Recorded defects for grapefruit include Mold or decay, Pitting, and Split rind.
- Mold or decay
Visible fungal growth, often starting at stem end or skin breaks, spreads quickly and ruins whole fruit, rendering them unsellable.
- Pitting
Depressed, brownish spots on the skin from chilling injury or rough handling, which reduce visual appeal and accelerate deterioration.
- Split rind
Cracks in the peel expose internal segments, inviting decay and moisture loss, making the fruit unmarketable.
- Dry or pithy segments
Lack of juice, mealy texture, or enlarged pith can result from over-maturity or improper storage, reducing eating quality.
Grapefruit Facts and HS Code
Grapefruit belongs to fresh fruit within produce, nuts, spices and food ingredients. Its customs classification covers HS 080540.
Grapefruit HS Code
| Product type | Raw |
|---|---|
| Form | Fresh |
| Position in the chain | Primary |
| Category | Fresh fruit — Produce, nuts, spices and food ingredients |
| HS codes | 080540 |
| Quoted in | USD/t |
| Reference location | ZAF |
Production & Handling
Grapefruit storage guidance: Store at chilled temperatures with high relative humidity to reduce moisture loss, maintain firmness, and slow microbial growth. Avoid chilling injury by staying within the recommended citrus range, and provide adequate air circulation to prevent condensation and mold.
Production and Storage
| Perishability | High |
|---|---|
| Temperature regime | Chilled |
| Storage conditions | Store at chilled temperatures with high relative humidity to reduce moisture loss, maintain firmness, and slow microbial growth. Avoid chilling injury by staying within the recommended citrus range, and provide adequate air circulation to prevent condensation and mold. |
| Production methods | Farmed |
| Processing steps |
|
Packaging
Typical grapefruit packaging includes Open-top carton, Plastic mesh bag, and Consumer clamshell.
- Open-top carton
Common for retail display, allowing airflow and easy handling while protecting fruit from mechanical damage.
- Plastic mesh bag
Used for bulk consumer packs, offering visibility and breathability, often for smaller fruit sizes.
- Consumer clamshell
For pre-packed fruit segments or small fruit, offering convenience and protection at point of sale.
Uses & Risks
Grapefruit is used in Fresh consumption, Fruit juice, and Marmalade.
End Uses
- Fresh consumption
Sold as whole fruit for direct eating
- Fruit juice
Pressed to produce grapefruit juice for beverage use
- Marmalade
Processed into citrus marmalade for spread
Uses and Related Commodities
| Downstream industries | Fresh fruit retail, Beverage production, Confectionery |
|---|
Sourcing risks
| Risk | Mitigation |
|---|---|
Frost damage ClimateHigh Freezing temperatures can cause internal juice sac collapse and off-flavors, often without visible external marks, leading to quality loss. | Monitor weather forecasts, site orchards to avoid frost pockets, and consider protective cover or wind machines. |
Pesticide residues Food safetyMedium Residues from agricultural treatments may remain on the peel; since consumers may zest or use the peel, monitor to stay within tolerances. | Implement pre-harvest intervals, use integrated pest management, and test lots for residue compliance. |
Citrus black spot PestMedium A fungal disease causes dark spots on the rind, reducing marketability and possibly affecting internal quality in severe cases. | Source from regions with disease surveillance, inspect fruit for symptoms, and maintain orchard sanitation. |
Grapefruit Questions
- What defines grapefruit as a commodity?
- Grapefruit is classified as an edible fruit, fresh or dried, under HS code 080540.
- How should fresh grapefruit be stored to maintain quality?
- Fresh grapefruit should be kept refrigerated at 0‑4 °C with high humidity and protected from ethylene‑producing fruits to prevent premature ripening.
- What are common processing methods for grapefruit?
- Grapefruit can be consumed fresh, juiced, or used in marmalades; processing typically involves washing, sorting, and cutting before packaging.