Average Weight and Nutritional Information for One Clementine
Understanding the weight and nutritional value of a single clementine is useful for meal planning, counting calories, and ensuring a balanced diet. While individual fruit sizes can vary, the average clementine serves as a reliable benchmark for calculating intake. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides standard data that clarifies the typical weight and nutrient breakdown.
Factors Influencing Clementine Weight
The weight of a clementine is not perfectly uniform. Several factors contribute to the slight variations you might notice. These include:
- Size: Clementines, also known as Cuties or Halos, are specifically bred to be small. However, even within this variety, some fruits will be smaller or larger than average.
- Water Content: The amount of water held within the fruit can fluctuate depending on ripeness and storage conditions. A plump, juicy clementine will naturally be heavier than one that has begun to dry out.
- Variety: While all clementines are a type of mandarin orange, different hybrid varieties exist. These subtle differences in genetics can affect the final size and weight of the fruit.
- Cultivation: The growing conditions, including soil quality and sun exposure, can impact the clementine's development and, consequently, its size and weight.
Comparing Clementines, Mandarins, and Tangerines
Clementines are often confused with other similar citrus fruits like mandarins and tangerines. While they share characteristics, there are notable differences in average weight, taste, and seed content. This comparison can help clarify why measurements vary across these fruit types. The following table highlights some key distinctions based on data from various nutritional sources.
| Feature | Clementine | Mandarin | Tangerine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Average Weight (g) | ~74 g | Varies greatly, often larger than clementines | Often slightly larger than clementines |
| Peel | Thin, glossy, very easy to peel | Varies, but generally easy to peel | Looser, but slightly tougher peel |
| Seeds | Mostly seedless | Can contain seeds | Often has more seeds |
| Flavor | Very sweet, less acidic | Sweet, but can be more tart | Sweet-tart, slightly more tangy |
Health Benefits of This Low-Calorie Snack
Beyond its weight and basic nutrition facts, the clementine offers several health benefits that make it an excellent choice for a healthy diet.
- High in Vitamin C: A single clementine provides a significant portion of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C, an antioxidant crucial for immune function, skin health, and wound healing.
- Antioxidants: Clementines contain antioxidants like beta-cryptoxanthin and flavonoids, which combat inflammation and protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Fiber: With about 1 gram of fiber per fruit, clementines can aid digestion and contribute to gut health. While a small amount, several clementines can add up throughout the day.
- Folate and Thiamine: The fruit also contains moderate amounts of folate and thiamine, essential B vitamins that support a healthy metabolism.
How to Incorporate Clementines into Your Diet
The small size and portability of clementines make them an ideal snack, but their use extends far beyond that. Here are several ways to enjoy them:
- As a quick snack: Peel and enjoy them straight out of hand.
- In salads: Add segments to a salad for a burst of sweet, citrusy flavor.
- In desserts: Use the zest and juice in cakes, tarts, and other baked goods.
- In savory dishes: The juice can be used to create glazes or marinades for poultry or fish.
- For hydration: Their high water content makes them a refreshing addition to a glass of water or as a juice.
Storing and Selecting the Freshest Clementines
To ensure you get the most out of your clementines, proper selection and storage are key.
- Check for firmness: Gently squeeze the fruit; it should be firm with a slight give, not mushy or overly hard.
- Feel the weight: A heavy clementine for its size indicates it is juicy and fresh. Light ones may be dry.
- Use your nose: A ripe clementine will have a sweet, citrusy aroma.
- Look for uniform color: Bright, glossy orange skin is a good sign. Avoid fruit with blemishes or green patches.
- Store properly: Keep clementines in the refrigerator to extend their freshness for one to two weeks.
Conclusion
In summary, one clementine weighs approximately 74 grams and offers a wealth of nutritional benefits for a low-calorie snack. By understanding the average weight, recognizing factors that influence it, and knowing how to select the freshest fruit, consumers can confidently incorporate clementines into their diet. The fruit's convenience, sweet flavor, and high content of immune-boosting vitamin C make it a delicious and healthy choice for both adults and children alike. For more detailed nutritional information, sources like the USDA's FoodData Central are invaluable resources for tracking dietary intake accurately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average weight of a single clementine?
The average weight of a single, raw clementine is approximately 74 grams.
How many calories are in one clementine?
One clementine (74 grams) contains about 35 calories, making it a low-calorie snack.
Do clementines have seeds?
Clementines are typically bred to be seedless, which is one of the reasons they are a popular snack, especially for children.
What nutrients are in a clementine?
Clementines are an excellent source of vitamin C, and also contain moderate amounts of fiber, folate, and thiamine.
How can I tell if a clementine is ripe?
Look for a fruit that feels heavy for its size, has firm skin with a slight give, and a uniform, bright orange color. It should also have a sweet citrus aroma.
What's the difference between a clementine and a mandarin?
A clementine is a specific hybrid type of mandarin orange. They are generally smaller, sweeter, and more consistently seedless than other mandarins.
How should I store clementines to keep them fresh?
For maximum freshness, store clementines in the refrigerator. They can last for one to two weeks when stored properly.
Can clementines interact with medications?
Yes, similar to grapefruit, clementines contain compounds that may interact with certain medications. It is best to consult a doctor or pharmacist if you are concerned.
What are some ways to eat clementines?
Besides eating them raw, clementines can be added to salads, used in desserts, or incorporated into savory glazes and marinades.
Is a clementine a good source of fiber?
One clementine provides about 1 gram of fiber, which contributes to daily intake and supports digestive health.
Do the size and weight of clementines affect their nutritional value?
While size influences the overall amount of nutrients in a single fruit, the nutritional content per 100 grams remains consistent. Larger fruits will contain proportionally more vitamins and calories.
What is the purpose of the glossy skin on a clementine?
The thin, glossy skin is characteristic of clementines and makes them very easy to peel, adding to their convenience as a quick snack.
