Tangerines are citrus fruits that grow in many tropical areas around the world.

 Like oranges, tangerines are known to be members of the citrus family, and they are described as the fruits of the C.tangerina species.

The slight differences between tangerines and the oranges is that tangerines are typically sweeter and less tart than oranges.

They also tend to offer a stronger flavour and are a richer source of vitamin A, while oranges might offer more vitamin C and fibre per serving.

First grown in Palatka, Florida In the 1800s, tangerines reportedly  received the name “tangerine” because they were imported through the city of Tangier in Morocco, North Africa.

Tangerines are known by so many names. – from citrus nobilis to citrus reticulate, and then culate Mandarin.

Other names are ganJu, mandarina, mandarine orange, mandarinen, mandarinenbaum, mandarinier, ponkan, santara, småcitrus, Swatow Orange, and  Tangerina. Amongst others.

The best way to eat tangerines is to simply peel them and eat them.

It is, however, important to note that tangerines are easier to peel and can be used as a quickie, that is, a fast and easy snack that is nutritious and healthy for the body, especially when you’re on the go.

Tangerines, when peeled and neatly arranged can be used for fruit parfaits and even added to salads as well.

When choosing ripe tangerines, ensure you look out for fruits that are deep in colour, semi-soft and it is good to avoid those that are overripened or filled with brown spots.

 Tangerines can be stored at room temperature or in the refrigerator, depending on what you prefer.

                        FEATURES

• Tangerines are a subgroup of mandarins, although most common mandarins that are reddish-orange and brightly coloured tend to be labelled as tangerines.
• Tangerines are usually in their prime from late October all the way through January.
• The fruits and the rinds of these orange coloured fruits can be eaten as food.
• Tangerines can equally be made into any juice and you can even take the rinds or peels raw as they are.
• Biting the rinds and swallowing them, and not minding the bitter tangy taste can be a good cure for asthma, indigestion, clogged arteries, cancer prevention, chemotherapy side effects, colon and rectal cancer, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), liver disease, and lung cancer.

Source – emedicinehealth.com