Valencia oranges slip-slop-slap as the sun heats up

Just like other sun-smart Aussies, locally grown Valencias apply their own natural sunscreen to protect the fruit’s inner-flesh from damaging UV rays. 

As Australia’s only orange variety grown at the height of summer, this re-greening process keeps the inside fresh and allows the variety to thrive in tropical conditions.

The natural defence causes the Valencia to reabsorb chlorophyll, which turns the skin slightly green, can make an orange ripe for the eating look like it’s not. 

Citrus Australia CEO Judith Damiani says Valencia oranges are often overlooked because of the unripe appearance but it is that very feature that protects the citrus from Australia’s extreme conditions.

“People assume that the green tinge means the Valencia is unripe but just like we protect our skin in simmer, this is nature’s way of coping with hot temperatures” Ms Damiani said. 

“Don’t be put off by the green appearance, the Valencia is one of the sweetest varieties and under the skin the flesh is bright orange, extremely juicy and nearly seedless - making it ideal for juicing” she said. 

The Valencia is not just sun-smart; it is a smart choice - just one Valencia contains two days’ supply of Vitamin C, she said.

“They’re also a good source of antioxidants and serve as a healthy defence against blood pressure, cancer and heart disease,” Ms Damiani said.

The Valencia variety is the number one juicing orange because it does not contain limonin, a chemical which can cause juice to develop a bitter taste after exposure to oxygen.

Valencia oranges are one of the largest orange varieties grown in Australia and are available in the summer months, from November to February.

Media Contact: For further information or to arrange an interview please contact Angela Harper or Frances Browne at Clemenger Public Relations on 07 3833 3666.