Comparing and Contrasting Three Similar Fruits, Essay Example

Most people who shop for fruit do not see its differences, in an orange, tangerine, or a kumquat. All three fruits are in the same fruit classifications and similar in look, color, size, and shape. The grocery store is good at disguising their store display placements, by making it difficult, to determine which one are an oranges, tangerines or kumquat. The grocery store is a master at convincing consumers to buy a certain fruit or unhealthy snack. The consumers are not fooled, because the consumers make their own decisions about the nutritional value of fruit. However, consumers purchase the fruit, because it is their favorite way to satisfy a sweet tooth. The grocery store consumers have their own thoughts on nutritional fruits, however most are more familiar with the sweet taste of an orange, or tangerine. The consumers understand that fruits are one the healthiest meals a person can eat, because they possess life-saving nutrients. According to Andrew (2010),”Citrus fruits are famous for their high vitamin C content—just one large orange provides 163% DV, Percent Daily Value, based on 2,000 calories per day”(pg.1).  The citrus fruits are very similar in characteristics, fruit classifications and nutritional value; however, the paper will discuss the distinct differences, benefits of citrus and the unhealthy aspects of citrus fruits.

The orange is the fruit of choice for many people because of its nutritional value. Flavonol in orange juice contributes to a healthy heart (pg.16). However, grocery shoppers may be conscious of the health benefits, but it is the oranges mouth-watering taste that seals the deal. Oranges have a rich supply of vitamin C, which possesses properties that fights the common cold. In addition, oranges protect your body from heart disease, high blood pressure, and infections.

The tangerine is a favorite because of its sweet taste; however, its nutritional value is in the tangerine peel. The tangerine is rich in Vitamin A while providing relief to the digestive system. The tangerine has a very low calorie count and reduces the risk of cancer. Tangerines have much flatter taste with a round more egg like characteristics. The tangerine delivers a sweet taste but with a tart taste. Most tangerines have a red-orange color but a few varieties have a yellow-green peel.

The kumquat is an acquired taste because of its distinctive sweet tangy flavor. This fruit does an excellent job absorbing vitamin C and potassium while boosting your immune system. One the little known secret about kumquat is the healing powers. This wonderful fruit can treat painful arthritis and help wounds heal faster.  The kumquat is one the most beneficial fruits for the body, because they help with lower calories, protein, very little fat, and a great source of fiber. The kumquat has such a wonderful taste, many people lose their voice after tasting the kumquat tangy and sweet juices.

One of the differences between oranges and tangerines are the seeds. The oranges have these large seeds that are embedded in almost every bite while the tangerine has very few seeds. Another difference is, the oranges are larger and hard to peel versus the tangerines are smaller, but easier to peel. The most obvious difference is the tangerines have navel-like pits and the oranges have a more stem-like pit. The kumquat is different from both the orange and the tangerines because the kumquat has a more elongated but oval shape with much darker slices. Another, difference is the inside of a kumquat, which has four sections like a four-leaf clover. In contrast, the tangerine and organs have eight sections. At first glance, all three fruits only look similar, but they are grown and harvested differently. The kumquat is grown more like a shrub, instead like a fruit tree. The healthcare industry promotes the benefits of eating oranges, its detractors feel citrus fruit is too acidic causing digestive problems, causes throat problems, high in sugar content, high calorie count and can cause excessive diarrhea. Some people have a low tolerance for the fruit sugar fructose, a condition known as dietary fructose intolerance (pg.3).

References

Andrews,T. (2010,Nov).Disadvantages Of Different Vegetables And Fruits. Retrieved fromhttp://www.livestrong.com/article/314708-disadvantages-of-different-vegetables-fruits/

“Flavonol In Orange Juice Contributes To A Healthy Heart.” Nursing Standard 25.26 (2011): 16-17. Academic Search Elite. Web. 1 Sept. 2012.

Zesty Citrus Fruits Signal Powerful Health Benefits.” Environmental Nutrition 35.2 (2012): 3. Academic Search Elite. Web. 1 Sept. 2012.