What Do You Call the Middle of an Orange?

Did you know that the white, stringy substance found in an orange is packed with just as much Vitamin C as the fruit's flesh? Many people automatically remove this fibrous part, but knowing what do you call the middle of an orange and its nutritional value might make you reconsider tossing it away.

Quick Summary

The middle of an orange consists of several distinct layers, including the white pith (or albedo), the central core, and the juicy segments (carpels), each with its own function and nutritional profile.

Key Points

• Pith or Albedo: The white, spongy middle part of an orange is called the pith or albedo.

• Segments (Carpels): The juicy sections inside the orange are scientifically known as carpels.

• Edible and Nutritious: The pith is completely edible and is a rich source of fiber and vitamin C.

• Rich in Flavonoids: The white pith contains a high concentration of antioxidants and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory benefits.

• Culinary Uses: Orange pith can be used to make marmalade, add fiber to smoothies, or create candied peel.

• Zest vs. Pith: The zest is the oily, flavorful outer layer of the rind, while the pith is the bitter, fibrous white layer underneath.

The Anatomy of an Orange

To properly answer the question of what do you call the middle of an orange, it is helpful to first understand its basic structure. A citrus fruit, or hesperidium, is a modified berry with a leathery peel. This peel is composed of two main parts: the outer colored layer and the inner white layer. Inside, the fruit is divided into several sections.

The Peel: Zest and Pith

An orange's exterior is called the rind or peel. This is made up of two layers: the exocarp, or flavedo, and the mesocarp, or albedo. The flavedo is the colorful, oily outer layer, commonly known as the zest. It contains oil glands that release fragrant essential oils when scraped. The albedo, on the other hand, is the white, spongy, and fibrous layer directly beneath the flavedo. This is the part most people are referring to when they talk about the 'middle' or 'white stuff' of an orange.

The Juicy Interior: Segments, Sacs, and Core

Inside the albedo, the orange's edible portion is called the endocarp, which is divided into multiple segments, or carpels. Each segment is enclosed by a thin membrane and contains numerous juice sacs, or vesicles, which hold the sweet, nutrient-rich orange juice. At the very center of the fruit is the fibrous core, which is essentially the central axis to which all the segments are attached. You can find additional details about citrus fruit structure in scientific literature.

Exploring the Pith (Albedo)

The pith is the main structural component connecting the rind to the fruit's flesh. Its purpose is to provide vascular bundles, which act as nutrient and water transport systems within the growing fruit. While its fibrous and sometimes bitter texture often leads people to discard it, the pith is highly edible and contains numerous health benefits.

Are the White Parts of an Orange Edible?

Yes, the pith is perfectly safe to eat and offers a wealth of nutritional advantages. While it can have a mild bitter taste, it is not poisonous. Many people simply prefer to peel it away for a sweeter flavor experience, but leaving it on is a great way to boost your daily nutrient intake. The bitterness is often less noticeable in certain types of oranges, and a little can be a great addition to smoothies where the flavor is masked.

Nutritional Benefits of Orange Pith

Despite its simple appearance, the pith is a nutritional powerhouse. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber, including pectin, which is known for improving digestion and lowering cholesterol levels. The pith is also rich in vitamin C and contains a high concentration of beneficial flavonoids like hesperidin and naringenin. These compounds have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that support vascular function and reduce inflammation. Some studies suggest that the highest concentration of flavonoids in citrus fruits is actually found in the pith.

Culinary Uses for Orange Pith and Zest

Rather than discarding the rind, including the pith, you can utilize it in several creative culinary applications. From flavoring drinks to making homemade condiments, its fibrous and aromatic properties can be a valuable addition to your kitchen.

Pith vs. Zest: A Culinary Comparison

Feature	Pith (Albedo)	Zest (Flavedo)
Flavor Profile	Mildly bitter, fibrous	Strong, fragrant, intense citrus flavor
Primary Use	High-fiber additions (smoothies, marmalade), natural thickener (pectin)	Flavoring baked goods, marinades, dressings, and cocktails
Nutritional Content	Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and flavonoids	High in essential oils, vitamin C, and antioxidants
Texture	Spongy and slightly tough	Thin and oily

Ways to Use the Whole Orange Rind

• Candied Orange Peel: By blanching the peel, including the pith, in sugar syrup, you can create a sweet and chewy treat that balances the bitterness.
• Marmalade: The high pectin content of the pith helps the jam-like spread set naturally.
• Smoothies: Blending small pieces of the pith into a smoothie is a simple way to add fiber and nutrients without affecting the taste.
• Infused Vinegar or Oil: For a fragrant, citrus-infused oil or vinegar, simply place strips of the rind and pith in the liquid.

Conclusion

In summary, the answer to "what do you call the middle of an orange?" is not a single term but a description of its different parts. The most prominent white, fibrous material is known as the pith, or albedo, and it holds significant nutritional value that is often overlooked. From the segments containing the juice vesicles to the central core, each component of an orange contributes to the fruit's structure and health benefits. The next time you peel an orange, consider leaving a little of the nutritious pith on to enjoy the full benefits of this versatile citrus fruit.

References

• **** Fruit morphology, anatomy, and physiology - ResearchGate
• **** Eat the Pith...Reduces Inflammation & Clogged Arteries | Dr ... - YouTube
• **** 6 Simple tips to reuse Orange Peels in daily cooking - Times of India

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the white stuff on an orange called?

The white, spongy layer between the orange's peel and its juicy segments is called the pith, or scientifically, the albedo.

Is it okay to eat the pith of an orange?

Yes, it is perfectly safe and healthy to eat the pith. Although some find it bitter, it is packed with dietary fiber and other nutrients.

What are the health benefits of eating orange pith?

Orange pith is rich in fiber, Vitamin C, and beneficial flavonoids like hesperidin. These nutrients can help improve digestion, lower cholesterol, and reduce inflammation.

Why is the pith of an orange bitter?

The bitterness in the pith comes from certain plant compounds, primarily flavonoids. The intensity of the bitterness can vary depending on the orange variety.

What are the segments of an orange called?

The individual, juicy sections of an orange are called carpels.

Is the pith and the zest the same thing?

No, they are different parts of the peel. The zest is the colorful, outer layer containing fragrant oils, while the pith is the white, fibrous layer directly beneath it.

Can I use orange pith in recipes?

Yes, orange pith can be used in recipes, particularly those where its fibrous texture or high pectin content is an advantage, such as marmalade or smoothies.