Oranges with “big navel” and “small navel” are different

How to Choose the Best Oranges: Key Tips to Know

When shopping for oranges, one of the first things to check is the navel. Oranges with a large, deep navel often have thick peels and dry, tasteless segments inside. These tend to be less juicy and less sweet. In contrast, oranges with a small or less visible navel usually have thinner skin, more juice, and a sweeter flavor—making them the better choice.

Here are a few more tips to help you pick the best oranges:

• Color: Look for a deep, rich orange hue. Oranges with vibrant color have typically received more sunlight, developing higher sugar content, which means they’re tastier and juicier.
• Shape: Choose round oranges rather than oddly shaped, oval, or wrinkled ones. Rounder fruits tend to have better internal structure and are more likely to be fresh and juicy.
• Weight: Hold the orange in your hand. Heavier oranges usually mean more juice. Lighter ones may have more peel and less fruit inside or may have dried out over time.
• Firmness: Gently squeeze the orange. A slightly soft but firm texture indicates freshness and ripeness. If it feels too hard, it likely has thick skin and less juice.

By checking the navel, color, shape, weight, and firmness, you can confidently pick the tastiest, juiciest oranges at the market every time.