There are approximately 200 varieties of mandarin oranges.

Background

  • Mandarins are a part of the Rutaceae botanical family. This botanical family includes many citrus fruits including grapefruit, orange, lemon, and lime.
  • Mandarins are one of the original citrus fruits. They are smaller than an orange and have a sweeter taste.
  • Tangerines and clementines are hybrid varieties of mandarins.
    • Tangerines are a cross between the mandarin and pomelo.
    • The clementine is a cross between the mandarin and sweet orange.

Nutrition

  • Mandarins are an excellent source of vitamin C.
    • Vitamin C is an antioxidant which supports collagen and connective tissue formation, immune function, and wound healing.

How to Purchase, Prepare, and Store

  • Purchase mandarins in-season from November to February, depending on where they are grown. Canned mandarins are available year-round at grocers. Choose those that are canned in their own juice versus those that are canned in syrup.
  • When choosing mandarins, they should be bright in color and heavy for their size. Avoid those with soft spots or signs of mold.
  • Remove skin prior to eating. Mandarins can be eaten raw as a delicious snack or added to your favorite dessert or main dish recipes.
  • Mandarins can be added to fruit or vegetable salads and used in smoothies or parfaits. They can also be juiced.
  • Store in a cool, dark place. Whole mandarins stored at room temperature are good for one week. If stored in the refrigerator, they can last up to six weeks.

Nutrition Facts

1 medium mandarin

  • Calories: 46.6
  • Protein: 0.7 g
  • Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrate: 11.7 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Calcium: 32.6 mg
  • Iron: 0.1 mg
  • Magnesium: 10.6 mg
  • Phosphorus: 17.6 mg
  • Folate: 14.1 μg
  • Vitamin A: 29.9 μg

Via fdc.nal.usda.gov

Recipes

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