Lake Alfred helped frozen orange juice change breakfast

Frozen orange juice may look ordinary in a grocery aisle. In Florida, it was a big invention story.

During and after World War II, citrus researchers were working on a hard problem. They wanted juice to keep more of its fresh orange taste after much of the water was removed. The breakthrough was frozen concentrated orange juice. The Florida Department of Citrus invented it in 1945. The patent was given to the United States government in 1948.

Lake Alfred belongs in that story because citrus research has deep roots there. Dr. Edwin Moore, one of the researchers tied to the process, worked with the Florida Department of Citrus research work connected to Lake Alfred. The city still honors him through its public library.

The invention helped Florida citrus travel in a new way. Fresh fruit and fresh juice had to move fast. Frozen concentrate could reach freezers and breakfast tables far from the grove.

For a trip, check current citrus history stops before you go. Citrus is still a working industry, so tours, groves, museums, and packinghouse access can change by season and business hours.