Have you ever wondered “Why do oranges and lemons appear green at times?” Or “Do oranges really prevent colds?” And what about “Is citrus safe if it comes from outside the country?” If you have, you’ve come to the right place. All these questions, and more, are answered right here on the Tropicana® Premium Fresh citrus FAQs section.



Is Tropicana a higher grade than other citrus?
The Tropicana Premium Fresh citrus specifications allow for only the highest grade possible in fresh citrus, which is US 1 Fancy Grade.

Where can I find Tropicana Premium Fresh citrus?
Retailers all across North America carry Tropicana Premium Fresh citrus. Click here to send us an e-mail, and we'll direct you to the closest store that stocks Tropicana.

Is Tropicana Premium Fresh citrus available year round?
Yes. Although some varieties of citrus are only available at certain times of the year, Tropicana offers fresh citrus items the whole year! Click here to view availability chart.

Why should I choose Tropicana Premium Fresh citrus?
You know and love the taste of Tropicana Pure Premium juice! Now, we’ve taken one step back in the OJ process to bring you that same delicious, high quality citrus in fresh form. If you’re particular about the fresh fruit you put in front of your family, then Tropicana Premium Fresh citrus is the easy answer for you.

Where does Tropicana Premium Fresh citrus come from?
Most of Tropicana Premium Fresh citrus produce is grown in the United States. However, during certain times of the year, citrus needs to come from other countries. Click here to view where all Tropicana Premium Fresh citrus varieties come from throughout the year.

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Why do oranges and lemons appear green at times?
This can be caused by two ways:

  1. In order for citrus to get its bright color, growing conditions must be warm days and cooler nights. When nights remain warm and the citrus doesn’t cool at night, then the fruit will continue to ripen on the inside as normal, but will have a greenish hue outside.
  2. A natural process called re-greening may occur when citrus fruit stays on the tree after it is ripe. If a tree is bearing both fruit and flower blossoms, the chlorophyll from the blossoms may be taken up by the fruit, giving it a greenish appearance.

Should I refrigerate citrus?
It’s not necessary to refrigerate citrus. However, it does make the fruit last longer. If you like your citrus juicier, store your citrus at room temperature. For more information on citrus storage, check out our Tropicana® Premium Fresh citrus? section.

Is all grapefruit tart?
No. Certain varieties of grapefruit contain less acid-to-sugar ratios and are quite sweet. Sweet varieties include Ruby Red and Star Ruby. You can even peel and eat them, just like an orange!

I’m trying to eat my 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables a day. What constitutes one serving of citrus?
That varies on which variety of citrus you’re eating. For instance, you’ll satisfy one of your 5-9 servings by eating:

  • 1 medium sized orange, lemon, mandarin (tangerine, tangelo, Clementine)
  • 1/2 grapefruit

Where did citrus originate?
Scientists believe citrus first originated in the ancient Orient (now China). Today, most citrus comes from Brazil, closely followed by the U.S.

What is citrus “zest”?
Citrus zest is the outer, colorful portion of any type of citrus. The zest contains most of the citrus’ natural oils, so it is very flavorful and aromatic and is often used in cooking and baking.

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How many calories are in 1 serving of each Tropicana® Premium Fresh citrus commodity?

  • Oranges: 70
  • Lemons: 15
  • Grapefruit: 60
  • Tangerines: 50
  • Specialty Citrus (Mandarins): 50

Do oranges really prevent colds?
No one knows what really cures the common cold, however, a healthy regime of washing hands regularly, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated and eating nutritious foods, like fruits and vegetables can go a long way to help you be healthy.

What types of nutrients are found in citrus fruit?
Citrus fruits contain vitamin C, folate, fiber and potassium. (Click on underlined words to learn more.) For more information on citrus nutritional facts and health benefits, be sure to check out our Health & Nutrition section.

What do the phytochemicals in citrus do for our health?
According to the Produce for Better Health Foundation website (www.5aday.com): Phytochemicals are substances that are naturally occurring only in plants. Some of them may provide health benefits beyond those provided by essential nutrients (vitamins and minerals). Eating a variety of colorful phytochemical-rich fruits and vegetables has been associated with a lower risk of some chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

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How do I know where citrus comes from?
By law, each case and bag of Tropicana Premium Fresh product must state the country of origin. Soon, individual stickers on bulk fruit will tell you where the fruit was grown, too!

Is citrus safe if it comes from outside the country?
Absolutely! The majority of Tropicana Premium Fresh product is grown in the United States. However, during certain times of the year, product grows in other countries, under the same strict guidelines that domestic growers abide by.

What type of food safety program does Tropicana Premium Fresh citrus go through?
Tropicana Premium Fresh citrus goes though a rigorous food safety program. Tropicana is partnered with Primus Labs, a third-party certifier for testing pesticide residues in fresh produce. Click here to learn more.

Do I have to wash my citrus?
Yes. Once you’re ready to use/eat your fresh citrus—but before peeling—wash the citrus in clean drinking water. You should not use soap or bleach, since the citrus may soak up the detergent or bleach, which is unhealthy to consume.

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