LAKELAND, Fla., Nov. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- No doubt about it, Floridians feel the impact of the economic downturn and plan to be more conservative with their holiday shopping lists this year. A new survey(1) reveals 76 percent of Floridians will be more conscientious about the gifts they purchase, making the ones they do give family and friends even more special. In addition, two out of five Floridians feel it's important the gifts they purchase are produced locally and will look within their state for holiday items.

"A variety of reasonably priced and unique items can be found close to home, especially in the Sunshine State," says Gail Rampersaud, a registered dietitian at the University of Florida. "Fresh Florida citrus is one simple and unique gift idea that offers great taste and nutritional value to friends and family and is especially appreciated during the long winter months."

Fresh citrus also provides a nutrition break from traditional holiday foods that often fall short with regard to healthfulness. "Florida citrus is one of the tastiest and healthiest gifts available," says Rampersaud. "Fresh citrus supplies key nutrients such as vitamin C, folate, potassium and fiber to help support overall good health when included as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle. Fresh citrus is also fat-free, sodium-free and cholesterol-free."

There's no better way to send Florida sunshine than with a colorful basket of oranges, grapefruit and tangerines. Sixty-seven percent of the survey respondents are planning to shop online this year from the comfort of their home, making Florida citrus fruit the perfect gift option. Florida citrus can be conveniently ordered at a variety of price ranges online at www.pickFLA.com and delivered directly to the recipient's doorstep.

Florida citrus is also locally grown, helping to support the state's economy. And since 64 percent of Floridians feel it's important to give gifts that are environmentally friendly, Florida citrus is an ideal option this year.

The Florida Department of Citrus is an executive agency of Florida government charged with the marketing, research and regulation of the Florida citrus industry. Its activities are funded by a tax paid by growers on each box of citrus that moves through commercial channels. The industry employs nearly 76,000 people, provides an annual economic impact close to $9 billion to the state, and contributes hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenues that help support Florida's schools, roads and health care services. For more information about the Florida Department of Citrus, please visit www.floridajuice.com.

(1) This survey interviewed 827 Florida residents ages 18+. The survey was conducted online during a seven-day period starting September 11, 2009 by Richard Day Research for the Florida Department of Citrus. The margin of error for a random sample of this size is +/-3 percent at the 95 percent confidence level.

    For more information, contact:
    Stephanie Zuro
    312.729.4242
    szuro@golinharris.com

SOURCE Florida Department of Citrus