How Many Carbs Are in a Very Small Mandarin Orange?

November 28, 2025 •

4 min read

According to USDA data, a single small mandarin orange (approximately 2.25 inches in diameter) contains around 9.34 grams of total carbohydrates. For those tracking their intake, knowing precisely how many carbs are in a very small mandarin orange is crucial for managing daily nutritional goals, especially for specific dietary plans.

Quick Summary

A small mandarin orange contains approximately 9.34 grams of total carbohydrates, with 1.26 grams coming from dietary fiber. This provides a low-calorie, nutrient-rich snack option suitable for many diets, including low-carb and weight management plans.

Key Points

Low Net Carbs: A very small mandarin orange has roughly 8 grams of net carbs, making it suitable for low-carb diets.
Rich in Vitamin C: This small citrus fruit is a great source of Vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
High in Antioxidants: Mandarins contain beneficial plant compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Supports Digestion: The dietary fiber found in mandarins aids in digestive health and promotes a feeling of fullness.
Convenient, Healthy Snack: Its small size and easy-to-peel nature make it a perfect grab-and-go snack option.
Low Calorie: A single small mandarin typically contains under 40 calories, fitting well into weight management plans.
Hydrating Fruit: With its high water content, the mandarin helps contribute to daily hydration needs.

Understanding the Nutritional Profile of a Small Mandarin Orange

The nutritional value of mandarins varies slightly depending on their size, but even a very small one offers a healthy dose of nutrients. The primary source of calories in a mandarin is its carbohydrate content, which includes both natural sugars and fiber. For those monitoring carb intake, it's important to differentiate between total carbohydrates and net carbs, especially for diets like keto.

Carbohydrate Breakdown: Total vs. Net Carbs

The most common way to analyze the carbohydrate content of food is by looking at the total carbohydrates, which includes all starches, sugars, and fiber. However, because the body does not fully digest fiber, many diet plans focus on "net carbs," calculated by subtracting fiber from total carbohydrates.

A typical very small mandarin orange (about 2.25 inches in diameter) contains:

Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 9.34 grams
Dietary Fiber: Approximately 1.26 grams
Net Carbs: Approximately 8.08 grams (9.34g total carbs - 1.26g fiber)

This low net carb count makes a small mandarin a favorable choice for a quick, healthy snack that can satisfy a sweet craving without a significant impact on blood sugar levels.

Comparison Table: Small Mandarin vs. Other Citrus

To put the carbohydrate content in perspective, here is a comparison of a very small mandarin orange against other common citrus fruits:


Fruit (Small Size)	Approximate Total Carbs	Approximate Dietary Fiber	Approximate Net Carbs
Mandarin Orange	9.34g	1.26g	8.08g
Medium Orange (88g)	11.21g	1.51g	9.70g
Small Grapefruit (200g)	23.4g	3.2g	20.2g
Lemon (58g)	5.4g	1.6g	3.8g

This table highlights that a very small mandarin orange is one of the lowest-carb options among common citrus fruits, making it a particularly good choice for strict carb-conscious diets. Its carb profile is similar to a small lemon but with a sweeter taste profile.

Health Benefits of Mandarins Beyond Carbs

While the carbohydrate count is a key factor for many, the broader nutritional benefits of a mandarin should not be overlooked. These tiny powerhouses are packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants that contribute to overall health. Beyond just being a tasty, low-carb snack, they offer significant value to your diet.

Key nutritional highlights of a small mandarin:

Vitamin C: A medium mandarin provides a significant portion of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, an essential antioxidant for immune function and skin health.
Antioxidants: Mandarins are rich in active plant compounds like flavonoids and carotenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Hydration: With a high water content, mandarins help contribute to daily fluid intake.
Fiber: The dietary fiber in mandarins supports digestive health and can help promote feelings of fullness.

Incorporating Small Mandarins into a Balanced Diet

There are numerous ways to enjoy a small mandarin while keeping your nutrition goals in mind. Its convenience makes it perfect for on-the-go snacking, but its versatility extends to various dishes.

Simple ways to include mandarins:

As a quick snack: Peel and enjoy the segments on their own.
In salads: Add mandarin segments to a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
In yogurt or cottage cheese: Combine segments with a protein-rich base for a balanced meal.
As a flavor enhancer: Use the zest or juice in marinades or sauces.

For those on a low-carb diet, monitoring portion sizes is always key. The natural sweetness of a mandarin can be a satisfying alternative to processed, high-sugar snacks.

Making an Informed Dietary Choice

Considering the nutritional information, a very small mandarin orange is an excellent choice for a low-carb, nutritious snack. Its modest carbohydrate content, primarily composed of fiber and natural sugars, fits well into various dietary patterns. It provides essential vitamins like Vitamin C and beneficial antioxidants without a high-calorie load. By understanding the numbers, you can make informed decisions that align with your health and wellness objectives.

Conclusion: A Small Fruit with Big Benefits

In summary, a very small mandarin orange contains approximately 9.34 grams of total carbohydrates. This amount is relatively low, and when you account for its dietary fiber, the net carb impact is minimal. The fruit is not just a source of carbs but a complete nutritional package, offering vitamin C, antioxidants, and a pleasant way to stay hydrated. For anyone looking for a wholesome, low-sugar fruit option, the small mandarin is an easy and delicious choice. Its health benefits, coupled with its small size and easy-to-peel nature, make it a perfect addition to a mindful eating plan. Prioritizing fruits like mandarins helps ensure that you are getting essential nutrients while managing your carbohydrate intake effectively.

For more detailed nutritional information and daily recommendations, consult reliable health resources.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mandarins are a class of citrus fruit that includes tangerines, which are a specific variety of mandarin. All tangerines are mandarins, but not all mandarins are tangerines. Generally, tangerines are slightly smaller, sweeter, and have a deeper orange color than other mandarin varieties.

A very small mandarin orange is not considered high in sugar. While it contains natural sugars, the amount is modest and paired with dietary fiber, which helps to moderate the effect on blood sugar levels. A small one has around 7 to 8 grams of natural sugar.

Yes, in moderation. Due to their relatively low net carb count (around 8 grams for a very small one), a small mandarin orange can fit into a keto diet. However, portion control is essential to ensure it doesn't push you over your daily carb limit.

A very small mandarin orange (approx. 2.25 inches) contains about 37 calories, according to USDA data. This makes it a low-calorie choice for a snack.

Yes, a small mandarin orange counts as part of your daily fruit intake recommendation. The specific portion size may vary, but generally, one medium-sized fruit is considered a single serving.

Yes, the dietary fiber in a mandarin orange, while a relatively small amount, is beneficial for digestion. It helps regulate bowel movements and promotes gut health.

Eating the whole mandarin is generally better than drinking its juice. The whole fruit contains all the dietary fiber, which is removed during juicing. This fiber helps slow the absorption of sugar, making the whole fruit a more balanced and beneficial choice.