Orange Fruit Facts

Oranges, one of the world's most popular citrus fruits, are low in calories and contain essential vitamins and nutrients. Many people associate oranges with immune-boosting vitamin C, but they also contain calcium, potassium, A and B vitamins and antioxidants.

History

• Oranges were grown in Asia thousands of years before they were known to the rest of the world, according to the World's Healthiest Foods website. They were introduced to Europe and the Americas in the 15th century.

Origin

• Oranges grow on several varieties of small trees or shrubs in the Rutaceae family, according to the Encyclopaedia Britannica website.

Classification

• Oranges are actually modified berries in the citrus group hesperidium, according to the Nutrition-and-You website. The fruit contains seeds and has a tough rind.

Varieties

• Valencia, Pineapple oranges, Temple, Navel, Red Navel, Hamlin, Ambersweet and Blood are popular orange varieties, according to the Fruit and Veggie Guru website.

Uses

• Oranges are either sweet or bitter. Sweet oranges (Citrus sinensis) such as Navel and Valencia oranges are often consumed raw or used for juices. Bitter oranges (Citrus aurantium) such as the Seville orange, are used in jams and marmalades according to the World's Healthiest Foods website.

Selection

• For maximum taste and nutrient content, World's Healthiest Foods recommends selecting ripe oranges, with smooth, firm skin. The color of an orange does not necessarily reflect its ripeness or nutritional value, as some commercial oranges are injected with dye to appear fresher. The website suggests choosing oranges that seem heavy for their size.