If you love tangerines, you might be curious about the history of this citrus fruit. Where did it come from, and what was it called before people started using the name “tangerine”? In this article, we’ll explore the origins and evolution of this beloved fruit.
The Origins of Tangerines
Tangerines are a type of mandarin orange, a group of citrus fruits that originated in China. The first mandarin oranges were likely cultivated in the Guangdong province of southern China, where they were prized for their sweet flavor and easy-to-peel skin.
Over time, mandarin oranges spread throughout Asia and eventually made their way to Europe. In the 1800s, they were introduced to North America, where they quickly became popular.
The Early Names for Tangerines
So, what was tangerine called before it became known by its current name? The answer is a bit complicated, as the fruit has been known by many different names over the years.
In the early 1800s, tangerines were introduced to Europe from Tangier, Morocco. Because of this, they were initially called “Tangierines” or “Mandarins of Tangiers.”
However, as the fruit became more popular in other parts of the world, it began to be known by different names. In India, for example, it was called “Chinna orange,” while in Japan it was known as “unshu mikan.”
The Emergence of the Name “Tangerine”
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Although tangerines were called by many different names in different parts of the world, the name “tangerine” eventually emerged as the most commonly-used term.
Some sources suggest that the name “tangerine” originated because the fruit was often shipped from Tangier, Morocco to other parts of the world. Others believe that the name comes from the city of Tangiers itself.
Regardless of its origins, the name “tangerine” has been widely used since the early 1900s, and is now the most commonly-known name for this citrus fruit.
The Many Varieties of Tangerines
Today, there are many different varieties of tangerines available, each with its own unique flavor, texture, and appearance.
Some of the most popular tangerine varieties include:
- Mandarin
- Clementine
- Satsuma
- Tangelo
- Baby tangerine
Whether you prefer your tangerines sweet or tart, juicy or dry, there is sure to be a variety that you’ll love.
The Health Benefits of Tangerines
Not only are tangerines delicious, they are also packed with nutrients that can benefit your health in a variety of ways.
Some of the health benefits of tangerines include:
- High in vitamin C, which can boost your immune system and help protect against disease
- Contain fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote feelings of fullness
- Low in calories, making them a great snack option for those watching their weight
- Rich in antioxidants, which can help protect against cancer and other chronic diseases
So, not only do tangerines taste great, they can also help keep you healthy!
In Conclusion
So, what was tangerine called before it was known by its current name? As we’ve seen, this citrus fruit has been known by many different names over the years, including “Tangierine” and “Mandarin of Tangiers.” However, the name “tangerine” eventually emerged as the most commonly-used term, and is still widely used today.
Whether you love tangerines for their sweet, juicy flavor or their many health benefits, there’s no denying that this citrus fruit has a rich and fascinating history.