Citrus fruit

This vibrant colourful group of fruits include oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruits. They are bursting with vitamins and minerals which helps to keep us healthy. They can be used for both sweet and savoury dishes, including the zest which adds that extra punch of flavour.

How to store

How to store citrus fruit

Citrus fruits should be stored in the fridge.

Freezing citrus fruit

Citrus fruits can be frozen in a sealed bag or container for up to 3 months.

Storing citrus fruit

Although citrus fruits aren't generally cooked, but if they are e.g. grilled lemons, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Citrus fruit top tips

How to freeze and defrost

To freeze: All citrus fruits can be simply sliced and frozen, or juiced into ice cube trays for adding to drinks and cooking. If you freeze the skins, this will make them much easier to zest with a grater if you want to use them later.

To defrost: When you take food or drink out of the freezer, it’s important to defrost it safely. Don’t defrost at room temperature. Ideally, defrost fully in the fridge and use within 24 hours. Or, use a microwave on the defrost setting directly before using.

Eating the whole food

Candying citrus peel will mean it keeps for 6 - 8 weeks in an airtight container. Use in fruitcakes, muffins or other sweet treats.

Be fabulous with leftovers

Roll citrus fruit on a hard surface with your hand. This makes them easier to squeeze when cut, to make sure you get the most juice out of them.

Buying tips

Think about buying citrus fruits loose to help you buy only what you need. This will ensure that all your food is more likely to be eaten and saved from the bin.

Remember, mandarins and grapefruit are also available in tins.

Perfect portions

Use our portion calculator for a quick and simple way to check how much of this food to serve at mealtimes.

Use portion calculator

Valuing your Citrus fruit beyond the price tag

Goodness in food

Your food is more than its shape, colour and price. Your food has an important role to play to help keep you healthy and with enough energy to live your life how you wish to.

Citrus fruit are an excellent source of vitamin C, helping to protect cells, maintaining healthy skin, blood vessels, bones and cartilage, and helping with wound healing.
Oranges also help the body break down and release energy from food and keep the nervous system healthy.
They are a great source of fibre which helps with digestion.

Food story

By the time your food arrives in your home, it’s already been on quite a journey starting with how it is made or grown and how your food reaches the supermarket.

So please help our food to finish its story in the most sustainable way, ensuring the planet’s resources that’s already used are put to good use. Take care of your food when it’s in your home and ensure every edible morsel is eaten - and that your food doesn’t end up in the bin!