A New Study Finds Chilling Blood Oranges Can Boost Health Benefits and More
When it comes to storing fruits, maintaining their freshness and nutritional value is a common concern. While many people focus on keeping their fruits at room temperature, new research suggests that the specific temperature at which certain fruits are stored can make a big difference in their health benefits. A recent study from the University of Florida has revealed more insight into how the storage temperature of blood oranges postharvest can significantly enhance their perks. As in, cold storage can boost the fruit's nutritional profile, making them more healthy and visually appealing. If you love snacking on blood oranges, keep reading for all you need to know about the recent blood orange study and how you can take advantage of it.
What does the blood oranges study say?
The study, published by the journal Food Chemistry Advances in June, explored the effects of different storage temperatures on 'Budd Blood' blood oranges, specifically those harvested at "commercial maturity." After being transported to the post-harvest lab at the University of Florida, the fruit was sanitized and divided into four groups. These groups were stored at temperatures ranging from 6°C to 12°C (42.8°F to 53.6°F) with 90 percent relative humidity for 60 days.
Researchers discovered that the lower temperatures of 6°C to 8°C (42.8°F to 46.4°F) were found to be most effective in preserving some "some physicochemical qualities." These include weight, firmness and juice pH. However, the higher temperatures of 10°C to 12 °C (50°F to 53.6°F) "promoted the highest increases in total anthocyanin concentration (TAC), total phenolic content (TPC) and total antioxidant activity (TAA) over the 60-day storage period."
Additionally, sugar levels increased during storage, "with the highest concentrations observed at 12°C." The researchers concluded this may affect the overall flavor profile and sweetness of the fruit. Finally, the higher temperatures had a larger effect on the color of the blood oranges, suggesting the potential of altering the "visual appearance of the peel, flesh and juice during storage."
How temperature affects the health benefits of blood oranges
The increase in anthocyanin levels is particularly noteworthy. According to the Cleveland Clinic, anthocyanins are "a group of deep red, purple and blue pigments found in plants" that have been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and even slow the growth of certain cancers. The study's findings suggest that storing blood oranges at cooler temperatures can enhance these health benefits by increasing the concentration of anthocyanins.
In addition, the study found that cooler storage temperatures also enhance the polyphenol and antioxidant content in blood oranges. According to Colorado State University, polyphenols are naturally occurring organic compounds found in fruits and vegetables that bring various health benefits. They primarily work as antioxidants, which fight against free radicals, prevent damage and reduce the risk of many diseases. Polyphenols can also protect against certain cancers, support gut, heart and brain health and lower blood sugar levels.
What does the study mean for you?
Blood oranges are already rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. For consumers, the study's findings offer a simple yet effective way to maximize the health benefits of blood oranges: store them at cooler temperatures. While such storage conditions prove more challenging in warmer climates, they can still be achieved with proper refrigeration.
As the researchers noted, optimizing storage methods can lead to "healthier and more visually appealing blood orange products," meeting market demand and consumer preferences. Plus, it can also enhance both the taste and appearance of your next blood orange you find in the market.
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