Region of Origin
Commodity:
Orange Cara Cara
Description & Origin
Cara cara oranges are the only available red-fleshed variety of navel orange. They are medium-sized and seedless, and from the outside they look much like a typical naval with bright orange, pebbled skin. On the inside, though, their flesh is a bright salmon-pink tone thanks to the presence of the antioxidant lycopene. Cara cara have less acid than a typical navel (making them seem sweeter) and a ...
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Cara cara’s are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, potassium, and lycopene – the same powerhouse antioxidant found in tomatoes.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Cara cara oranges are very sweet with an addictively berry-like flavor, making them an ideal hand fruit. That said, their pink color is extremely attractive for plating purposes, and they are the ideal way to add a striking look to salads, fruit salads, desserts, parfaits, and more that might call for a typical naval orange.
Flavor Pairings
Cranberry, Pear, Pomegranate, Grapefruit, Strawberry, Blackberry, Ginger, Arugula, Parsley, Mint, Lavender
How to Prepare
Cara cara should be peeled, like a naval orange. The skin is typically not eaten. The flesh can be sliced or segmented as desired.
How to Store & Use in the Kitchen
Navel oranges should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area. Store at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
The zest of cara cara oranges can be used just like orange zest and leftover peel are good for a wide array of household uses, from facial scrubs to cleaning products to brown sugar softeners.
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
38-46°F
RECOMMENDED TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
40-54°F (Cool Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING INJURY:
Yes- When stored below 38°F most California-grown cara cara will display symptoms including pitting and increased rates of decay.
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
90-95%
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
Yes- Very Low
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
Yes-Moderate
ETHYLENE RECOMMENDATIONS
Exposure to ethylene primarily influences external color, but can accelerate decay over time. Exposure is not recommended, if possible.
RIPENS AFTER HARVEST
No
PROFESSIONAL RIPENING RECOMMENDED
No
Quality Assessment
Cara cara should be round with medium size that is consistent throughout the case. The surface should be mostly orange or yellow-orange. Shriveling around the stem end, staining, or decay are considered defects.
Important Handling Notes
Keep in mind that oranges from different growing regions may require different storage temperatures to avoid damage.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, cara cara oranges may last up to 3-8 weeks.