The tangelo (C. reticulata × C. maxima or × C. paradisi), Citrus × tangelo, is a citrus fruit hybrid of a Citrus reticulata variety, such as mandarin orange or tangerine, and a Citrus maxima variety, such as a pomelo or grapefruit. The name is a portmanteau of 'tangerine' and 'pomelo'.

Tangelos are the size of an adult fist, have a tart and tangy taste, and are juicy (with less flesh inside). They generally have loose skin and are easier to peel than oranges, readily distinguished from them by a characteristic bump at the stem. Tangelos can be used as a substitute for mandarin oranges or sweet oranges.

History and Origin

Tangelos originated from crosses between tangerines and grapefruit, with the first hybrids created by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in 1911. A specific tangelo variety, the 'UGLI'® tangelo from Jamaica, is a natural hybrid likely of a tangerine/mandarin and a grapefruit, developed from a chance seedling and exported since the 1930s. 

Nutrient Database – USDA (United States Department of Agriculture)

Reference Values for Nutrition – FDA U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Rich in Vitamin C - tangelos are rich in vitamin C, providing a significant portion of the daily recommended value in just one medium-sized fruit. This high vitamin C content supports immune function, promotes healthy skin, and aids in iron absorption. Tangelos are also a good source of dietary fiber and other nutrients like vitamin A and potassium.

Boosts immune system - Tangelos boost the immune system primarily due to their high vitamin C content, which acts as an antioxidant, strengthens immune cells, and aids in the production of collagen for healthier skin. They also contain other beneficial nutrients like folate and flavonoids, which support cell growth, repair, and protect against cell damage.

Cognitive function - Tangelos can support cognitive function due to their rich content of flavonoids and essential vitamins like C, B6, and folate, which are linked to better memory and slower age-related cognitive decline. The citrus flavonoids found in tangelos, such as tangeretin, have demonstrated neuroprotective effects in studies by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. While research often uses general citrus fruits, the compounds in tangelos are a source of these beneficial effects.

Heart health - Tangelos support heart health due to their high levels of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium, along with beneficial flavonoids. These nutrients help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and may lower the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.

Promotes healthy skin - Tangelos promote healthy skin because they are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for producing collagen that keeps skin firm and youthful. They also contain antioxidants like beta-cryptoxanthin and other flavonoids that protect against premature aging by fighting free radicals, and vitamin A, which helps with cell turnover and evening out skin tone.

Hydrates the body - Tangelos hydrate the body due to their high-water content, which makes up over 85% of the fruit. They also contain electrolytes, like potassium, that help the body maintain fluid balance and replenish lost fluids, particularly after exercise.

Supports cognitive function - Tangelos may support cognitive function due to their content of antioxidants like vitamin C and flavonoids, which help protect brain cells from oxidative damage. These compounds, along with folate and vitamin B6, can help with memory, mental clarity, and the slowing of age-related cognitive decline. 

Antioxidant properties - Tangelos have antioxidant properties primarily due to their high content of vitamin C, flavonoids, and other beneficial compounds found in both the pulp and peel. These antioxidants help protect the body from cell damage caused by free radicals, reduce inflammation, and support various aspects of health like immune function and cardiovascular well-being.

Tangelo – From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

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