Is red discoloration on orange peel harmful?

Generally, red coloring on tangerine peels is harmless and often due to natural varietal characteristics or pigments. However, caution is advised if accompanied by abnormal signs. If in doubt, it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Some tangerine varieties naturally have reddish peels, or their peels may turn red during ripening due to exposure to sunlight and temperature changes. This type of red coloration results from natural pigments, contains no harmful substances, and does not affect health. Normally red peels are smooth in texture and odorless, with no correlation to the taste or quality of the fruit flesh.

If the red color on the peel is due to artificial dyeing, or is accompanied by mold, stickiness, or unusual odors, there may be risks of harmful residue. Artificially dyed red areas are often unevenly distributed and prone to fading; the dye may penetrate the skin or even the fruit flesh during handling or consumption, potentially affecting health. Red areas with mold may harbor fungi that produce harmful substances.

When purchasing tangerines, examine whether the red color on the peel appears natural and uniform. Avoid buying tangerines with color that rubs off easily or unusually bright red patches. Thoroughly wash the peel before consumption. If intending to eat the peel, ensure it is free from dyeing or mold. If you experience discomfort after accidentally consuming an abnormally red peel, seek medical attention promptly to ensure food safety.