citrus · Rutaceae

Orange

Citrus sinensis

Energy
47kcal
Native
Top Producer
BRA
Orange - a half of an orange sitting on top of a white sheet

Photo: NIKHIL · Unsplash License

Origin & History

Where it comes from

Citrus × sinensis, is a broadleaf evergreen hybrid between pomelo and mandarin. Hybrid sweet oranges are commonly cultivated fruits that include Valencia oranges, blood oranges and navel oranges.

World Production

Where it grows

67.1M
Tonnes · 2024
1
Brazil23.37%
2
China, mainland11.35%
3
Mexico7.20%
4
Egypt6.26%
5
India5.74%

Source: FAO STAT — Crops and Livestock Products, 2024

Notable facts

Things worth knowing

  1. 01

    The orange, scientifically known as Citrus sinensis, belongs to the Rutaceae family, which is characteristic of many citrus fruits.

  2. 02

    This popular fruit is a broadleaf evergreen hybrid, originating from a cross between a pomelo and a mandarin.

  3. 03

    Sweet oranges, including varieties like Valencia, blood oranges, and navel oranges, are widely cultivated globally.

  4. 04

    Brazil is currently recognized as the top global producer of oranges, contributing significantly to world supply as per FAO 2024 data.

  5. 05

    Global orange production reaches an impressive 67.1 million tonnes annually, highlighting its widespread agricultural importance.

Properties

Health & nutrition

  • Oranges are a notable source of Vitamin C, providing 59.1mg per 100g, which may support overall health.
  • With 166mg of Potassium per 100g, oranges may contribute to a balanced diet.
  • Each 100g serving of orange contains 2.00g of dietary fiber, which may aid in digestive wellness.
  • Oranges provide 47 kcal per 100g, making them a relatively low-calorie fruit choice.
  • As a citrus fruit, oranges are known for their nutritional content, potentially supporting various bodily functions.

Informational only · not medical advice

In the kitchen

Culinary uses

Oranges are a versatile fruit enjoyed globally in many ways. They are commonly consumed fresh, either peeled and eaten whole or segmented into salads. Orange juice is a very popular beverage worldwide. The zest and juice are also widely used in cooking and baking to add flavor to desserts, marinades, and sauces. Specific varieties like blood oranges or Valencia oranges are favored for their unique taste in various culinary applications.

Plates

Specimen photographs

Orange - a group of oranges sitting on top of a wooden table
Cristina Anne Costello · Unsplash Licensesource
Orange - a group of oranges sitting on top of a table
Cristina Anne Costello · Unsplash Licensesource