However, it’s still recommended to wash oranges under hot water to reduce the amount of pesticides ingested ( 14). These effects are primarily associated with chronically high levels of exposure rather than the relatively small amounts found in the peels and skins of fruits. Studies link chronic pesticide intake to negative health effects, including increased cancer risk and hormone dysfunction ( 15, 16). Though studies have found the inner fruit of oranges to have very low or undetectable pesticide levels, the peels contain significantly higher amounts ( 14). Pesticides are frequently used on citrus fruits like oranges to protect against mold and insects ( 13). They also contain limonene, a chemical that may protect against skin cancer.ĭespite the nutritional benefits, eating orange peels also has certain drawbacks. Orange peels are rich in fiber, vitamins, and disease-fighting polyphenols. Specifically, orange peels are a good source of the polyphenols hesperidin and polymethoxyflavones (PMFs), both of which are being studied for their potential anticancer effects ( 9, 10, 11).Īlso, nearly 90% of the essential oils in orange peels are composed of limonene, a naturally occurring chemical that has been studied for its anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, including against skin cancer ( 12). One test-tube study found that the total polyphenol content and activity in orange peels was significantly higher than in the actual fruit ( 8, 9). Plus, it’s rich in plant compounds called polyphenols, which may help prevent and manage many chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and Alzheimer’s disease ( 7). Orange peel also contains good amounts of provitamin A, folate, riboflavin, thiamine, vitamin B6, and calcium ( 1). Studies show that diets high in vitamin C and fiber benefit heart and digestive health and may protect against certain types of cancer ( 3, 4, 5, 6). The same serving also packs about 4 times more fiber ( 1, 2). In fact, just 1 tablespoon (6 grams) of orange peel provides 14% of the Daily Value (DV) of vitamin C - nearly 3 times more than the inner fruit.

It’s perhaps less well known that orange peels are also rich in several nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, and plant compounds like polyphenols. Oranges are juicy, sweet citrus fruits known for being high in vitamin C.

Dehydrated cutie oranges