FOOD NEWS
Should You Throw Out Your Citrus Rinds?
By Cynthia Anaya
The flesh of citrus fruits is high in vitamin C, which helps the body to heal, boosts the immune system, and supports heart health, whereas the fiber in it can help fight cancer, lower cholesterol, and boost brain function. However, the flesh isn’t the only nutritious part of citrus fruits, as citrus peels or rinds offer a myriad of benefits as well.
The rind of a citrus fruit offers a high amount of vitamin C and other vitamins and minerals, but it's best to opt for organic fruits instead of conventionally grown fruits because of the potential risk of ingesting pesticide residue. The best way to reap the benefits of citrus rinds is to zest the fruit with a vegetable peeler or fine grater, adding extra flavor to meals or beverages.
Additionally, you can make your own household cleaners, air fresheners, and insect/pest repellents by soaking leftover peels in water and vinegar. Citrus peels also contain nutrients like phosphorus, nitrogen, and potassium, so you can add them to your compost piles or use them to make a liquid fertilizer for your plants.