News Coverage
In season: Navel Oranges and Other Fresh Foods Available This Week
Published December 3, 2008
Navel oranges are equally suited for eating or juicing. They are seedless, easy to peel and segment easily. Their season lasts from now until May, peaking January through March. Cara Cara oranges, with their bright pink-red interior, are a type of navel.
Besides vitamin C (130 percent of the daily value in each one), oranges contain beneficial phytonutrients in their zest. And it's relatively safe to eat. The Environmental Working Group places them squarely in the middle of its Pesticides in Produce list: With one being the least residue and 100 the most, oranges score 46. Most of the navel oranges you see in the supermarket come from California or Arizona.
Tip: When you zest an orange – that is, grate the outer skin – be sure to get the orange part only, as the white pith is bitter.
