Fresh Oranges from The Fruit Company
The Fruit Company’s Malibu Navel Oranges are perfect as a premium fruit gift or as a highlight of some of our popular gourmet fruit baskets. They are not just essential fruit; they are delicious, versatile, and boast profound health benefits. Boost your Vitamin C intake, and enjoy the sun-ripened sweetness of our Malibu Navel Oranges and other delicious varieties in your next fruit basket gift or fruit of the month subscription.
Why Oranges are a Healthy Supplement to Your Diet
Eating an orange is one of the best ways to increase your Vitamin C intake and gain the associated health benefits. Oranges are a reliable source of this essential nutrient. Vitamin C, found in oranges, is a powerful antioxidant that can protect your cells from the damage that contributes to aging and diseases. Vitamin C preserves cells and supports a healthy immune system. Consuming oranges help reduce the chances of catching a cold or flu and reduce the severity of symptoms if you get sick.
Eating oranges as a snack or incorporating them into your meals can be a delicious and convenient way to increase your Vitamin C intake and reap its many health benefits. The Fruit Company offers a wide variety of oranges, including Valencia, Cara Cara, Mandarin, Blood Oranges, and Mailbu Navel Oranges, all of which are great tasting and perfect for incorporating into your diet.
Oranges Have a Colorful History
Oranges have been cultivated for thousands of years. The origins of the orange can be traced back to Southeast Asia, where early humans first harvested wild oranges. These wild oranges were small and bitter, but over time, people began selectively breeding trees to produce sweeter and larger fruits selectively.
In the 4th century AD, oranges were brought to China by traders, quickly becoming a popular fruit. From China, oranges spread to other parts of Asia, including India and Japan. It was in the 15th century that oranges were brought to Europe by traders and explorers such as Christopher Columbus and Vasco da Gama.
In Europe, oranges were initially a luxury item, only enjoyed by the wealthy. However, over time, the fruit became more widely available, and by the 17th century, oranges were a common fruit across the continent.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, oranges were introduced to the Americas, quickly becoming an important crop, especially in Florida and California. Today, oranges are grown in many regions worldwide, including South America, Africa, and Australia.
Finding the Perfect Orange
When shopping for oranges, look for a few key indicators of ripeness. First, make sure it feels heavy in your hand. This indicates that it is ripe and juicy. Next, give it a smell test. The fragrance should be inviting and refreshing; if it smells musky or fermented, put it back. Also, make sure there are no signs of bruising or damage; if so, pass on that fruit. Finally, inspect the orange peel for discoloration or dark spots—these may indicate poor quality. Following these tips will help you find a delicious orange every time! Not only will it taste great, but it will also be packed with vitamins and minerals essential for your overall health.
Best Ways to Consume Oranges
Oranges can be utilized in various ways, such as in salads, smoothies, juices, and baking. You can also enjoy sweet oranges sliced or peeled. Here are a few of our favorite recipes:
One of the best ways to enjoy oranges is by juicing them. Freshly squeezed orange juice is a delicious and healthy beverage that can be enjoyed anytime. We recommend juicing Valencia, Cara Cara, or Blood Oranges, which all taste delicious and have unique flavors. Navel Oranges, while more prevalent, contain limonin, which can turn your juice bitter when exposed to oxygen for prolonged periods.
But why stop there? You can also use oranges in cooking, baking, and making marmalades. The zest and juice of oranges can add flavor to marinades, sauces, and desserts. They can also make jams, and jellies, and you can even candy their peels. The possibilities are endless. Orange you excited to try them?
Take advantage of this limited offer using the code CITRUS23 at checkout and receive a 15% discount on your next premium fruit box.
