Vitamin C content in citrus fruits
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Vitamin C Content in Citrus Fruits: Key Findings
Vitamin C Levels Across Citrus Fruit Types
Research consistently shows that vitamin C content varies widely among different citrus fruits. Oranges generally have the highest vitamin C content, with values reported between 43.61 mg/100g and 58.30 mg/100g depending on the measurement method used. Grapefruit and lemons also contain significant amounts, typically ranging from about 26.40 mg/100g to 49.15 mg/100g for grapefruit and 31.33 mg/100g to 43.96 mg/100g for lemons. Limes, kaffir limes, and musk limes tend to have lower vitamin C levels, with musk lime being the lowest among those tested (as low as 16.78 mg/100g) 157.
Variation by Variety and Region
Within the same fruit type, vitamin C content can differ significantly depending on the variety and region of cultivation. For example, among orange varieties, Abu Surah oranges had much higher vitamin C concentrations (38.9–41.6 mg/dl) compared to sweet oranges (5.1–8.5 mg/dl). Other varieties like sour orange, mandarin, and Tarocco also showed a wide range of vitamin C levels. This highlights the importance of variety selection when seeking citrus fruits as a vitamin C source 26.
Impact of Storage, Handling, and Processing
Vitamin C content in citrus fruits is affected by storage duration, temperature, and handling. Longer storage times and higher temperatures generally lead to greater vitamin C loss. Canned juices tend to retain more vitamin C than bottled juices due to the protective effect of tinplate. Additionally, factors such as country of origin, transport, and storage conditions can cause significant variation in vitamin C levels even within the same fruit type 3467.
Measurement Methods and Accuracy
Vitamin C in citrus fruits can be measured using several methods, including titration and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). HPLC is considered more accurate and precise, but both methods confirm that oranges are typically the richest source of vitamin C among common citrus fruits. Newer techniques, such as visible and near-infrared spectroscopy combined with machine learning, are being developed for rapid, nondestructive assessment of vitamin C content 18.
Nutritional and Antioxidant Importance
Vitamin C is a key contributor to the antioxidant capacity of citrus fruits. Oranges, in particular, not only have high vitamin C content but also exhibit strong antioxidant activity. While carotenoids also contribute to antioxidant properties, vitamin C is the main factor for hydrophilic antioxidant capacity in citrus pulp 910.
Conclusion
Citrus fruits are excellent sources of vitamin C, with oranges generally providing the highest levels, followed by grapefruit and lemons. The vitamin C content can vary greatly depending on fruit variety, region, storage, and processing methods. Accurate measurement and careful selection of fruit varieties are important for maximizing vitamin C intake from citrus fruits.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Try another search
vitamin D deficiency prevalence
What are the key differences between UTAUT and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)?
large ground-based telescopes
topical treatments for herpes simplex virus
What are the effects of academic anxiety on university students' mental health?
Does excessive screen time impact attention span in young children?