Even though tangerines are associated with winter warmth and a family atmosphere, they hide a less pleasant aspect – their skin can be a carrier of chemicals used in transport and storage. The most commonly used fungicides, such as imazalil or thiabendazole, are intended to protect fruit against mold and rot.. The problem occurs when these substances remain on the surface of the fruit and enter our body. According to the Environmental Working Group’s 2025 report imazalil was detected on nearly 90% of citrus fruits from conventional cultivation. Research published in 2025 by the University of Pécs indicates that this substance may have a genotoxic effect, leading to DNA damage and increasing the risk of developing cancer with long-term exposure.
Thiabendazole, another popular fungicide, also raises serious doubts. An analysis published in August 2025 by Universidade da Coruña showed that it acts as a photomutagen – under the influence of light, it can damage cells, including human cells. Moreover, other scientific works indicate its effects on the thyroid and liver and potential developmental defects in laboratory animals.
This means that even if the levels of these substances are within the limits permitted by European Union regulations, their presence on fruit remains a fact. In the short term, they may cause skin irritation, allergic reactions or nausea. In the long term – hormonal disorders, neurotoxicity and increased risk of chronic diseases. Even low doses tend to accumulate in the body, leading to serious health consequences.
In Poland, the consumption of citrus fruits increases in winter due to their high vitamin C content, so this problem becomes particularly important. It is worth remembering that tangerines can be a source of joy and health, but only if we ensure their safe consumption – preferably after washing thoroughly and avoiding using the peel in cocktails or desserts.
Tangerines reach our baskets after a long journey – from orchards, through warehouses and containers, to store shelves. During this time, their skin comes into contact with many surfaces and substances, so it is worth ensuring that the fruit is thoroughly cleaned before eating.. Simply rinsing the fruit quickly under the tap only removes dust and some dirt. If you want to be sure that the tangerines are really clean, it is a good idea to spend a little extra time on them.
The easiest way is preparation bowls with water and vinegar or baking soda. Just soak the fruit for approx 10 minutesand then rinse them under running water, rubbing the skin vigorously with your hands. This dissolves waxes and residues that might remain on the surface. Finally, it is worth drying the fruit with a paper towel – not only for convenience, but also to avoid the development of mold.
It is worth remembering that even tangerines from organic farming should be rinsed. Although they do not use synthetic plant protection products, their skin is covered with natural wax, which retains impurities. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose organic or conventionally grown fruit, it is always worth taking a moment to wash them thoroughly.
Tangerines are a real treasure trove of nutrients. They contain a large dose of vitamin Cwhich supports immunity and helps the body fight infections, as well as flavonoids – natural plant compounds with anti-inflammatory properties and supporting the circulatory system. Research conducted in February 2025 by Harvard Medical School and published in Harvard Gazette showed that regular consumption of citrus fruits can reduce the risk of depression by up to 20% by stimulating the growth of intestinal bacteria responsible for the production of serotonin and dopamine. Therefore, tangerines act not only on the body, but also on the psyche.
In turn, the analysis was published in August 2025 on the website Biology Insights emphasizes that one medium mandarin provides over 25% of the daily requirement for vitamin Cand is additionally a source of beta-cryptoxanthin – a carotenoid that gives fruit an intense color and supports lung and bone health. Interestingly, tangerines also contain natural limonoids, which in laboratory tests have anti-cancer properties, and their regular consumption is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
