Blood Orange

Let’s be honest: Blood oranges aren’t here to quietly blend into the office fruit bowl. They may look plain on the outside, but inside they show up with flair, dressed in ruby-red to deep purple and bringing a classic orange flavor mixed with notes of berry. They’re vibrant, surprising, and a little dramatic—basically the Beyoncé of the citrus world.

These oranges are great for snacking at your desk, brightening up winter salads, or adding color to a drink. Here’s a closer look at this limited-time gift from Mother Nature, often available in The FruitGuys’ seasonal fruit mixes.

History: From the Mediterranean to Modern Markets

Blood oranges have roots in Asia (the birthplace of all citrus) and the Mediterranean, where they’ve grown in countries like Italy and Spain for hundreds of years. Their distinct red hue comes from a genetic mutation that activates the accumulation of anthocyanin—a pigment also found in blueberries and red cabbage. Blood oranges require a very specific climate to develop their iconic color: warm days and cold nights. That’s why regions like Sicily, with its volcanic soil and moody weather, are their ideal home.

In Italy, blood oranges are practically citrus royalty. And when they made their way to the US (mainly California), they brought all their dramatic flair with them. As their popularity has grown, so has curiosity around the name “blood orange,” with some wondering if it sends the right message—a topic that’s sparked some interesting thoughts.

Seasonal Spotlight: When to Find These Scarlet Gems

Blood oranges are a winter fruit. You’ll typically find them in stores and The FruitGuys’ office fruit mixes from December to April, with some outlier varieties earlier or later. That makes them the perfect wintertime pick-me-up, because by February, we all need something exciting that isn’t pumpkin spice or leftover holiday cookies.

Here’s a closer look at a few different types of blood oranges:

• Moro: This bold, intense orange has deep red flesh (almost wine-colored) and a tart edge. Often the peel is red, too.
• Sanguinelli: This is a Spanish variety with an orange-red peel, few seeds, and a tart-but-not-too-tart flavor. It’s the mellow middle child of the blood orange family.
• Tarocco: This sweet, juicy MVP has a balanced sweet-tart flavor and an orange-to-red blush inside. It’s usually seedless and easy to peel.

Not all blood oranges are created equal, and that’s kind of the fun. Try as many as you can and pretend you’re hosting a private citrus tasting.

Taste Profile

When it comes to flavor, blood oranges are the head-turners of citrus season. Their complex flavor is reminiscent of other sweet oranges (like Valencias and navels) but with a tangy twist. You might notice subtle berry notes, especially the flavor of raspberries. Some people also taste flowers and even tea! This unique combination gives blood oranges a yummy dessert-like taste.

Nutrition Profile & Health Benefits

This fruit doesn’t just taste amazing, it delivers serious health perks, too. Take a look at its standout nutrition profile:

Low in Calories

With only 70 calories per fruit, blood oranges are a light, energizing snack that fits perfectly into a balanced diet.

Natural Source of Carbohydrates

Each orange offers 15 grams of carbohydrates. That quick hit of energy will keep you going throughout the day.

Naturally Sweet

Blood oranges contain 14 grams of natural sugar per serving. They’re as sweet as dessert without anything processed or added.

Free From Sodium

Blood oranges are sodium-free. They’re heart-smart food that supports healthy blood pressure levels.

Rich in Vitamin C

A single blood orange packs in 80% of your daily value of Vitamin C. It’s the perfect snack to help boost your immune system and keep your skin healthy.

Storage Tips: Keep Them Fresh and Juicy

To keep your blood oranges fresh and flavorful, follow these simple guidelines.

• Room Temperature Storage: Blood oranges will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two weeks—just make sure they’re out of direct sunlight.
• Refrigerate for Longer Freshness: For a longer shelf life, store your blood oranges in the refrigerator.
• Wash Just Before Eating: When you’re peckish, wash your orange in cool water, then peel or slice it for a snack. You can also squeeze the juice into sparkling water for a fun and healthy drink.

Pro Tip: Don’t forget the zest! Zest your bloods before juicing or eating, and add the zest to cookies, cakes, or ice cubes for a bright surprise later.

How to Enjoy Blood Oranges All Season

You can enjoy fresh blood oranges in your office all winter long when you order one of The FruitGuys’ seasonal fruit mixes for recurring delivery. We often add them to our Harvest, Season’s Best, and Staples boxes.

FAQs

1. What is special about blood oranges?

• Blood oranges are special because of their crimson flesh. Its bright color comes from anthocyanins—powerful antioxidants not often found in other citrus fruits.

2. Is blood orange just grapefruit?

• No, a blood orange is not the same as a grapefruit. Blood oranges are a type of orange with deep red flesh and a sweet-tart, berry-like flavor. Grapefruits are a different citrus fruit altogether, usually larger and more bitter (but still delicious). Check our Citrus Family Tree to find out how they’re related.

3. What is the difference between a blood orange and a regular orange?

• The main difference is that blood oranges have red flesh and a berry-like flavor, while regular oranges have orange-colored flesh and a more straightforward, sweet taste.

4. Who can’t eat blood oranges?

• People with citrus allergies, acid reflux, or who are taking medications affected by citrus (like some statins) should steer clear of blood oranges. When in doubt, ask your doctor if they’re right for you.