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How Many Varieties of Mandarins Exist? Understanding the Benefits and How to Select the Sweetest Fruit

The world of citrus fruits is a vibrant and varied one, with a multitude of varieties to discover. While telling the difference between an orange and a tangerine may be a simple task, the tangerine family itself boasts an impressive range of subtypes. Are you ready to explore the diverse world of tangerines and uncover the secrets of their varied types? Step into a citrus paradise as we peel back the layers and reveal a treasure trove of tangerine treats!

Administrator

23 July, 2024

Oranges are not just a dessert fruit, they also pack a nutritional punch and offer a range of health benefits. Join us as we explore the different varieties of this fruit and learn about its nutritional value and unique properties.

1Types of Oranges in Vietnam

Oranges come in a variety of cultivars, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the most common types found in Vietnam:

Sweet Oranges (Green-Skinned Oranges)

Sweet oranges are characterized by their thin, glossy skin. When unripe, the fruit is a deep green, turning to yellow-orange as it ripens. The flesh is juicy and sweet with a distinctive aroma, leaving a slightly sour aftertaste.

When you peel a sweet orange, you’ll be greeted by a burst of citrus aroma from the essential oils in the peel, stimulating your senses of smell and taste.

Sweet oranges are grown throughout the Mekong Delta provinces, particularly in Cai Be (Tien Giang), Lai Vung (Dong Thap), and Long Tri (Hau Giang).

These oranges are available year-round, with peak season around the Tet Holiday and in March-April.

Pink Oranges (Tieu Oranges)

Pink oranges, also known as Tieu oranges, originate from the Mekong Delta region. They have a round shape with slightly flattened ends and a pinkish-orange peel. The flesh is red, with few seeds, and is exceptionally sweet and juicy.

Pink oranges have a single harvest season, typically from November to December (around the Lunar New Year) each year.

The most renowned pink oranges come from Lai Vung in Dong Thap province, where they are known as “Quýt Tiều Son.”

Thai Oranges

Thai oranges come in two varieties: seeded and seedless. They are a red-orange hybrid originating from Thailand. Thai oranges are round with slightly flattened ends, and have a pure sweet taste with no sour notes. The thin peel turns from green to a beautiful red-orange when ripe, and the fruit is easy to peel and segment.

Thai oranges are best enjoyed fresh and are not typically used for juicing or cooking. They are grown in several provinces in the Mekong Delta region.

Bac Kan Oranges

Bac Kan oranges are a native variety with a unique genetic makeup. They can be cultivated on steep slopes and are resistant to pests and diseases. These oranges have a round, slightly flattened shape with smooth, bright yellow peel. The flesh is a pale yellow, with a mild sour taste and no bitterness. They have a distinctive, long-lasting aroma.

Bac Kan oranges are harvested from around October (Lunar calendar) until the Tet Holiday.

Ha Giang Pomelo

Ha Giang pomelo has a rough, easy-to-peel skin and a sweet, juicy flesh. When unripe, the fruit is green, turning to a beautiful orange-yellow when ripe. Each pomelo weighs around 120-150g.

Paper Oranges

Paper oranges get their name from their thin, papery skin that is easy to peel. When you open a paper orange, the sweet, refreshing aroma fills your nose, stimulating your taste buds.

2Health Benefits of Oranges

Nutritional Benefits

A medium-sized orange provides approximately 47 calories and the following nutritional content:

12gr Protein
1.5gr Fat
8gr Carbohydrates
23.5mg Sodium
0.04mg Copper
0.07mg Zinc
146mg Potassium
0.03mg Selenium
33mg Calcium
11mg Magnesium

Oranges also contain various vitamins and minerals such as:, , ,…

Knowing the names, distinctive features, and seasons of different orange varieties will help you make informed choices when selecting the best oranges for yourself and your family.

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Citrus fruits, including oranges, are packed with nutrients and vitamins that offer a plethora of health benefits. Here are some of the most notable advantages:

Boosts Immune System: Helps fight off common respiratory bacteria and enhances overall immune function.
Rich in Antioxidants: Slows down or prevents oxidation, reducing stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
Improves Digestion: Oranges are high in fiber, which promotes a healthy digestive system.
Prevents Kidney Stones: Oranges help alleviate symptoms like painful urination and nausea.
Enhances Cardiovascular Health: A study suggests that consuming citrus fruits can lead to a healthier heart and a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.
Reduces Inflammation: The vitamin C and powerful antioxidants in oranges protect cells from damage and lower the risk of cellular inflammation.

Additionally, oranges provide other health benefits such as improved eye and skin health, and better diabetes management.

For more information:

Benefits of Orange Peel

Orange peel has medicinal properties and can be used to treat coughs and bad breath. Soaking orange peels in water can help relieve constipation and bloating.

If you’re having trouble sleeping, try adding a few pieces of orange peel to your bathwater. It will help you relax and improve your sleep quality.

3How to Choose the Best Oranges

When selecting oranges, look for those with fresh, green stems and uniform color. Choose oranges that are evenly colored or have a yellow tint (like the color of chicken fat) covering at least a third of the fruit.

For more tips:

4Frequently Asked Questions about Oranges

How many calories are in an orange? Can eating oranges help with weight loss?

A 100g serving of oranges contains approximately 53.3 kcal. Oranges are rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, fiber, and water, which aid digestion and boost metabolism, making them an excellent choice for those looking to lose weight.

Learn more:

How to Distinguish Between Vietnamese and Chinese Oranges

When differentiating between Vietnamese and Chinese oranges, consider the following criteria:

Criteria	Chinese Oranges	Vietnamese Oranges
Peel Thickness	Thick, Dry Peel	Thin Peel
Color	Bright Orange or Yellow	Mottled with Spots, Chicken Fat Yellow
Shape	Round and Uniform	Irregular Sizes
Taste	Strong Sweet Taste, Sometimes Bitter	Mild, Slightly Sour

We hope that this article has provided you with valuable information about oranges and their benefits. Feel free to share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments section below!

Frequently asked questions

There are over 200 varieties of mandarins, with new hybrids being created regularly. Some of the most common types include Clementines, Satsumas, Pixie mandarins, and Honey murcotts.

Mandarins are an excellent source of vitamin C and other antioxidants, which can boost immune function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. They also contain fiber, which can aid digestion and lower cholesterol levels.

When choosing a mandarin, look for fruit that is heavy for its size and has a thin, smooth skin. Avoid fruit with soft spots or wrinkles, as these indicate that the mandarin is past its prime. The color of the mandarin is not always an indicator of sweetness, as some varieties are naturally greener or more orange than others.

To keep mandarins fresh for longer, store them in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or basement. They can also be refrigerated, which will extend their shelf life by a few weeks. Place them in a perforated plastic bag to prevent them from drying out.