When selecting oranges, the size of the navel is a surprisingly reliable indicator of quality. Large navel oranges may appear appealing, but the prominent navel often signals that much of the interior is taken up by white membrane rather than juicy segments, resulting in a drier, less flavorful fruit.
Smaller navel oranges, by contrast, usually have thinner skin, juicier flesh, and sweeter segments. Their modest navel indicates that more of the fruit is edible, flavorful segments rather than pith. So next time you’re at the store, focus on the navel: small navels generally mean a sweeter, more satisfying orange.
