When shopping for oranges, you may have noticed that some have a prominent “big navel” while others have a smaller one. This seemingly minor difference is more than just a visual curiosity—it actually reflects distinct characteristics in the fruit’s development, flavor, and even its structure. Here’s a closer look at what sets these oranges apart and why their navels matter.
What Are Navel Oranges?
Navel oranges are a type of sweet orange named for the small, belly button-like formation on their blossom end. This “navel” is actually a second, undeveloped fruit embedded in the main orange. The size of the navel can vary significantly, leading to the terms “big navel” and “small navel.”
The Science Behind Big and Small Navels
The size of the navel depends on how the orange develops on the tree. The second fruit (the navel) grows within the primary fruit, and its size can differ based on factors like genetics, growing conditions, and nutrient availability.