Tarocco Oranges: the secret of their colour and all the benefits

When it comes to Blood Oranges, Taroccos are the undisputed symbol of Sicily and the beating heart of our production at Mammarancia. But having ordered these oranges early in the season, you may have wondered: why are they more blonde than red? Behind this detail lies a natural phenomenon that tells a lot about their authenticity and unique link to the Sicilian territory.

The Colour of Tarocco: a Work of Nature

The famous deep red colour of Tarocco oranges is not just a matter of aesthetics, but is due to anthocyanins, natural pigments and powerful antioxidants. These develop due to the temperature range between day and night, typical of the Sicilian winter.

At the beginning of the season, when temperatures are still mild and nights are not cold enough, the thermal contrast is not sufficient to fully activate pigmentation. This is why Tarocco oranges appear blonder or only slightly pinkish in the first harvests.

But beware: the colour does not compromise either the flavour or the benefits. Even blond, Tarocco oranges retain their extraordinary sweetness, juiciness and wealth of vitamins, ready to give you all the goodness of Sicily.

Benefits of Tarocco oranges: a natural elixir

Besides their beauty and unmistakable flavour, Tarocco oranges are a concentrate of health. That’s why they should always be on your table:

• They strengthen the immune system: thanks to their high vitamin C content, they are a natural ally in defending against seasonal ailments.
• Combat oxidative stress: anthocyanins and flavonoids protect cells against premature ageing and external aggression.
• Promote digestion: the fibres contained in the pulp help regulate intestinal transit and improve intestinal health.
• They support cardiovascular health: thanks to flavonoids, they help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Even when they are less pigmented, Tarocco do not lose any of these extraordinary properties. And their flavour, delicately sweet with a hint of citrus, makes them a pleasure for the palate.

A fruit that evolves with the season

Tarocco oranges are a constantly evolving fruit. As the season progresses, the thermal contrast between day and night increases, favouring the formation of anthocyanins and transforming their colour into an intense ruby red. This process is a reflection of authentic agriculture, respectful of the times and rhythms of nature.

At the beginning of harvest, Tarocco tell of the start of winter with their golden hue. When winter intensifies, they reach the peak of their beauty and flavour. It is a journey you can experience with us, enjoying their evolution and rediscovering a new fruit each time.

Find out what the agronomist says about Tarocco

The Tarocco is much more than a fruit: it is a reflection of the bond between man and the Sicilian land. As explained in our article “That’s why the only ‘Tarocco’ is only Sicilian” the land plays a key role in giving it its unique flavour and extraordinary quality. From mild temperatures to sea breezes, every factor contributes to making Tarocco a true treasure of our land.

Why love Tarocco oranges in any season?

Tarocco oranges are more than just a fruit: they are a gift of the earth, an explosion of flavour and well-being that evolves with each passing week. It is not the colour that matters, but the link with the Sicilian land and those who cultivate them with love. Order your Tarocco oranges today and experience the magic of this extraordinary fruit.