Why does some western-grown citrus have thicker peel?
The thickness of citrus peel is dependent upon annual variables, the most critical being weather. Extremely hot or cold temperatures, excess wind and the degree of rainfall can all affect the thickness of peel. Thicker peel is nature s way of protecting the quality of the fruit s interior. There’s a bonus effect if this occurs. The “albedo”, as the white portion just beneath the peel is called, is loaded with nutrients, especially fiber, which you’ll get if you eat it along with the fruit itself.
