Buyers and Consumers

What Makes Texas Different?

With the diverse climates and land, Texas produces many agricultural commodities to fill seasonal gaps around the world. Texas is among the top 10 producers in the U.S. for more than 40 major commodities. ith its diverse climates and land, Texas produces many agricultural commodities to fill seasonal gaps around the world. Texas is among the top 10 producers in the U.S. for more than 40 major commodities. Whether you are just browsing to see what Texas International Agriculture has to offer, or looking for specific information, click the images below to search helpful information, news, and facts about products "Made in Texas".

Texas Grapefruit

Grapefruit is named for the way they grow in clusters on the tree, and is believed to have made its way to the U.S. in the early 1800s. Originally introduced to the Florida region by either Spanish or French settlers, the grapefruit eventually made its way to South Texas, most likely by visiting Spanish missionaries. In 1929, a new grapefruit was found growing on a tree in an orchard in McAllen, Texas. This grapefruit stuck out due to its peculiar red blush and red flesh. This red grapefruit became the first produce item to be patented.

Texas Red Grapefruit are sweet, juicy, and tree-ripened, literally stored on the tree to the peak of perfection. Texas Grapefruit sometimes feature “Tropical Beauty Marks” that are the result of tropical breezes causing the fruit to sway and rub against branches and other fruit. These Beauty Marks don’t affect the fruit inside – and it what’s insides that counts!

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Texas Livestock

Texas is a production powerhouse across many livestock sectors. Beef, milk, broilers, and eggs are all top 10 commodities for the state. Exploring animal agriculture in Texas more broadly, you'll find the state is also a top producer of sheep, goats, pigs, and horses.

From livestock genetics to final products, Texas is a state where animal agriculture shines!

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Texas Sorghum

Texas ranks second in the US for sorghum production with 728,000 hectares (1.8 million acres). Sorghum is used around the world as an efficient forage for livestock. It is also an increasingly popular choice in the consumer food industry and other emerging markets (including energy). Known as an environment-friendly crop, sorghum is favored by farmers for its efficient use of water, both of which matter for crops growing in Texas.

Over 50% of all sorghum grown in the US is produced for export markets, and Texas, with its network of seaports, airports, roads, and railways, helps get sorghum to locations around the world with ease.

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Texas Pecans

In Texas, pecans hold a special place in hearts and kitchens across the state. Teh only major tree nut truly native to the United States, archaeologists have found evidence of pecan seed and leaf fossil formed along the Rio Grande dating back as far as 6100 B.C. Today, Texas is a leading pecan grower and the top producer among states where the tree is native. It's no wonder that the pecan is recognized with the State Tree (pecan tree), the State Health Nut (pecan nut), and the Texas State pie (pecan pie) designations.

Native to more than half the counties in the state, Texas pecans are grown and harvested by family farmers in all regions of Texas, with man of these farms passed down for multiple generations. Today, native pecan trees continue to grow along riverbends and streams, and improved varieties are raised in managed groves across the state. The delicious flavor and texture of Texas pecans offer palate-pleasing, healthful and inspired meals. In fact, to enjoy Texan pecans is like enjoying a bit of Texas wherever you are.

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Texas Citrus

If you're looking for the best tasting citrus available, look no further than the Lone Star State. Perfectly suited to South Texas' sub-tropical climate, fertile soil, and sunny weather, the first commerical shipment of citrus left the Lower Rio Grande Valley in 1920. Today, tree-ripened, fresh citrus from Texas is known for its sweet flavor and fresh taste.

Texas is the third-largest citrus producing state in the country. The citrus industry in Texas covers about 11,000 hectares (27,000 acres) and is made up of grapefruits, oranges, kumquats, lemons, limes, mandarins, pomelos, satsumas, and tangerines. Texas citrus growers carefully maintain crop quality through precision irrigation techniques, adapting management practices to the unique growing conditions, and extensive research with academic and industry partners.

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Texas Beer, Wine, and Spirits

Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or looking for the perfect beverage to pair with dinner, raise a glass to beer, wine, and spirits from the Lone Star State. Texas wines are gaining national and international recognition, while beer and spirits from Texas are growing industries with increasing recognition worldwide.

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Texas Peanuts

Texas is a leading producer of peanuts and has the distinction of being the only state to grow all four types: Runner, Virginia, Valencia, and Spanish. The state also leads the nation in growing organic peanuts. Texas peanuts are high-oleic peanuts, which provides great health benefits and a longer shelf life.

Peanuts are nature's "zero-waste" plant. Everything from the roots to the hulls are utilized. Once the peanuts are harvested, the remaining plant can be used as a fertilizer or feed for cattle. They require less water and have a relatively small carbon footprint. Peanut plants also have a unique ability to improve soil. They are a nitrogen-fixing crop, which means they take nitrogen from the air and produce their own in the ground, which benefits other crops and the environment.