Our Produce Department is receiving many unique and distinct citrus varieties weekly. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all of the citrus, be sure to ask a Produce staff member for samples! Here are just a few of the varieties we are seeing in stock.

Blood Orange/Raspberry Orange

A mutation of the orange, blood oranges contain anthocyanins which gives them their red pulp and are high in antioxidants. Blood oranges have a unique raspberry-like flavor with citrus notes.

Navel Orange

Navel oranges were found in Brazil in 1820. Their name came from their resemblance to a navel. They are both sweet and juicy and are commonly used for zesting along with being eaten raw.

Heirloom Navel Orange

Heirloom navels are grown with specific farming practices and pay special attention to the soil. These practices date back to when navels were introduced in the 1800s.

Valencia Orange

Valencia oranges were produced in the United States in the 1800s as a hybrid orange and are primarily used for juicing.

Mandarin Orange

Mandarin Oranges are small and are generally sweeter and less acidic than other oranges. They originated in India and picked up the name mandarin after traveling to China. From there, they were imported across Europe, eventually also being called tangerine. Sweet and easy to peel, they are a favorite amongst adults and children alike.

Cara Cara Navel

The Cara Cara navel is sometimes mistaken for a blood orange but isn’t. They are less acidic and have a subtle berry undertone. If the acidity of other citrus varieties bothers you, try one of these. Originating in Venezuela, Cara Cara navels are at their peak sweetness in January and February.

Shaddock Pomelo

African Shaddock pomelos have bitter pith which should be peeled, as should the outer membranes of the flesh. These pomelos are generally less bitter and tart than other pomelo varieties and are both dense and chewy with a tangy sweetness.

Red Globe Pomelo

Like the Shaddock pomelo, Red Globe pomelos have bitter pith and outer membranes of the flesh which should be peeled away before consumption. Red Globe pomelos get gradually redder as the season progresses. As well as being tender, Red Globe pomelos are low in acidity and taste sugary and floral with some tartness.

Ruby Grapefruit

This grapefruit gets its name from its ruby red flesh coloring. They are juicy and mildly sweet and tart.

T’orange Lemon

The T’Orange lemon has a fresh, clean scent and tastes refreshing. It is often used in making marmalade and jam and in specialty drinks.

Minneola Tangelo

Minneola tangelo specifically is a cross between a Dancy tangerine and a Duncan grapefruit, giving it stronger grapefruit characteristics. Like oranges, they are an excellent source of vitamin C, folate, and potassium. Although all citrus is seasonal and generally abundant from late fall to spring, tangelos are highly seasonal and typically available from December through March. Source: Minneola Tangelo | Co+op (grocery.coop)

Further Reading

https://www.thespruceeats.com/complete-guide-to-citrus-fruits-4780326