Tangerine (2 varieties)

Pixie

• Description

The Pixie tangerine (Citrus reticulata) is a small, seedless, and exceptionally sweet citrus variety known for its easy-to-peel skin and juicy flesh. It was developed in California and is highly prized for its mild, honey-like flavor.

Appearance

• Small to medium-sized with a round to slightly flattened shape.

• Bright orange, slightly pebbly skin that is easy to peel.

• Deep orange, juicy, seedless flesh inside.

Flavor & Texture

• Exceptionally sweet, mild, and less acidic than other tangerines.

• Juicy and tender, with a smooth, refreshing texture.

Growth & Harvest

• Late-season variety, typically ripening in March through May.

• Grows well in California’s warm, Mediterranean climate.

• Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.

• Naturally resistant to pests and diseases.

Uses

• Perfect for fresh eating, as they are seedless and easy to peel.

• Great in fruit salads, smoothies, and desserts.

• Can be used in juices, jams, and marmalades.

• Pairs well with savory dishes, such as salads and roasted meats.

Pixie Tangerine Nutritional Value (per 100g serving)

Pixie tangerines are low in calories, high in vitamin C, and packed with fiber and antioxidants.

Macronutrients

• Calories: ~47 kcal

• Carbohydrates: ~12g

• Sugars: ~9g

• Fiber: ~1.8g (7% DV) – supports digestion

• Protein: ~0.8g

• Fat: ~0.3g

Vitamins & Minerals

• Vitamin C: ~40mg (44% DV) – boosts immunity and skin health

• Vitamin A: ~15µg (2% DV) – supports vision and immune function

• Folate (B9): ~16µg (4% DV) – essential for cell function and fetal development

• Potassium: ~180mg (5% DV) – helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function

• Calcium: ~37mg (4% DV) – supports bone health

• Magnesium: ~11mg (3% DV) – aids in nerve and muscle function

Antioxidants & Phytochemicals

• Flavonoids & carotenoids – help reduce inflammation and support heart health.

• Hesperidin & limonene – may have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.

Health Benefits

1. Boosts Immunity

• High in vitamin C (about 44% of the daily value in a 100g serving), which is essential for immune function.

• Vitamin C helps the body fight infections and can promote faster recovery from illnesses.

2. Supports Skin Health

• Vitamin C is key for collagen production, helping maintain healthy, youthful skin.

• Antioxidants like carotenoids and flavonoids protect skin from sun damage, wrinkles, and environmental stress.

3. Promotes Healthy Digestion

• Rich in dietary fiber (about 1.8g per 100g), which aids in digestion and prevents constipation.

• Fiber also supports the growth of healthy gut bacteria and helps maintain a healthy digestive system.

4. Aids in Hydration & Detoxification

• Made up of around 85% water, Pixie tangerines help keep the body hydrated.

• Their high water content helps flush out toxins and supports kidney health.

5. Heart Health

• Potassium (around 180mg per 100g) helps regulate blood pressure by balancing the negative effects of sodium.

• The flavonoids in Pixie tangerines may support healthy blood circulation and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

6. Supports Weight Management

• Low in calories (47 kcal per 100g), making them a great snack for weight management.

• The fiber helps control appetite by promoting feelings of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating.

7. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

• Flavonoids and limonene have natural anti-inflammatory effects, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases related to inflammation, like arthritis.

8. Good for Vision

• Vitamin A and carotenoids (including beta-carotene) support eye health and may reduce the risk of macular degeneration and night blindness.

Satsuma  Tangerine

• Description

The Satsuma tangerine (Citrus unshiu) is a popular, seedless citrus variety that is beloved for its easy-to-peel skin, sweet flavor, and juiciness. This variety is a type of mandarin orange and is known for being one of the earliest maturing tangerines, typically ready for harvest in late fall to early winter.

Appearance

• Medium-sized, typically 2 to 3 inches in diameter, with a loose, thin skin that makes it easy to peel.

• The skin is typically bright orange, slightly textured, and often dimpled.

• Inside, the fruit is segmented into tender, juicy, seedless sections.

Flavor & Texture

• Sweet and tangy, with a balanced, mild acidity that makes it perfect for eating fresh.

• Juicy and tender flesh with a smooth texture and no tough fibers.

Growth & Harvest

• Satsumas thrive in mild, subtropical to temperate climates, such as California, Texas, and parts of the Mediterranean.

• Cold-hardy, making them more resistant to frost than many other citrus varieties.

• Harvested in the fall to early winter, usually from October to December.

Uses

• Fresh as a snack, in fruit salads, or as a topping for yogurt and desserts.

• Juiced for a refreshing, sweet citrus drink.

• In cooking, used for marinades, sauces, or in baked goods.

• Excellent in smoothies, jams, or as a garnish for savory dishes.

Satsuma Tangerine Nutritional Value (per 100g serving)

Satsuma tangerines are low in calories and packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to your diet.

Macronutrients

• Calories: ~47 kcal

• Carbohydrates: ~12g

• Sugars: ~9g

• Fiber: ~1.8g (7% DV)

• Protein: ~0.9g

• Fat: ~0.2g

Vitamins & Minerals

• Vitamin C: ~26mg (29% DV) – supports immune function, skin health, and wound healing

• Vitamin A: ~10µg (1% DV) – helps maintain healthy vision

• Folate (B9): ~10µg (2% DV) – supports cell function and fetal development

• Potassium: ~170mg (5% DV) – helps regulate blood pressure and muscle function

• Magnesium: ~9mg (2% DV) – essential for nerve and muscle function

Antioxidants & Phytochemicals

• Flavonoids, carotenoids, and limonene – help reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and support heart health.

Health Benefits

1. Boosts Immunity

• High in vitamin C (around 29% of the daily value per 100g), which helps strengthen the immune system.

• Vitamin C supports the body’s ability to fight infections, reduces inflammation, and can speed up recovery from illnesses.

2. Promotes Healthy Skin

• Vitamin C is essential for collagen production, which helps maintain skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of wrinkles.

• The antioxidants in Satsuma tangerines help protect skin from sun damage, environmental pollutants, and oxidative stress.

3. Supports Digestive Health

• Satsuma tangerines are rich in fiber, which helps improve digestion, prevents constipation, and supports overall gut health.

• The fiber content also promotes healthy gut bacteria, which plays a role in immune function and nutrient absorption.

4. Aids in Hydration

• With a water content of about 86%, Satsuma tangerines help keep the body hydrated, supporting overall health and detoxification.

5. Heart Health

• Potassium in Satsumas helps regulate blood pressure, balancing out the negative effects of sodium.

• Flavonoids and limonene contribute to heart health by improving circulation and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

6. Weight Management

• Low in calories (only about 47 kcal per 100g) but high in fiber, Satsuma tangerines can help you feel full longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating.

• Their natural sweetness also makes them a satisfying alternative to sugary snacks, helping to curb cravings.

7. Eye Health

• Vitamin A and carotenoids like beta-carotene help protect the eyes from age-related macular degeneration, night blindness, and other vision-related issues.

8. May Help Prevent Inflammation

• Flavonoids and limonene provide natural anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation related to conditions like arthritis.

9. Supports Bone Health

• Satsuma tangerines provide a small amount of calcium, which, along with vitamin C, supports the development and maintenance of strong bones and teeth.