WHAT IS AN ORANGE?

Originally from Asia, the orange is a bastard offspring of the pomelo and mandarin citrus fruits.  The European word “orange” is actually from its old French name “pomme d’orenge” or orange apple.  While it may not look like it, this fruit is actually a modified berry.  Its evergreen trees can grow over 20 feet (6 meters in height) but require a lot of sunshine and water.  The fruit itself comes in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes.  An orange ball is usually divided into 10 segments (called carpels) with a leathery outer skin.

WHY ARE ORANGES GOOD FOR YOU?

This fruit has only 20% of the citric acid present in lemons and limes making them a bit easier to digest.  They are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and choline.  Oranges are also chock full of fiber which can both aid digestion and lower your cholesterol levels.  Lastly this citrus fruit has cartenoids which your body converts into Vitamin A (good for the eyes) as well.

WHEN ARE ORANGES IN SEASON?

It varies a bit by breed.  But generally in warmer climates (in the northern hemisphere) oranges are in season January through April.  Down south in Australia they’re in season June through October.

HOW SHOULD ORANGES BE STORED?

This fruit does not ripen any further once it’s been picked.  So store them in a refrigerator where you’ll get around 3 weeks.  Or you can also keep them at room temperature where you’ll get about a week of shelf life.

WHAT IS THE PROPER WAY TO CUT AN ORANGE?

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WHAT THE HELL IS A GREEN ORANGE?

The color of the skin is actually not an ideal way to judge this fruit.  A heat wave can easily change an orange skin back to its original green color.  Instead judge your fruit by touch (firmness) and if it looks fresh.