Orange: what it contains and why it matters
Orange is a citrus fruit (santra). This page lists its nutritional content from published sources and explains which lab parameters it relates to.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-04
Nutritional content of orange
Per 100 g edible portion, from published composition data.
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 47 kcal | USDA |
| Protein | 0.94 g | USDA |
| Total lipid (fat) | 0.12 g | USDA |
| Carbohydrate, by difference | 11.75 g | USDA |
| Fiber, total dietary | 2.4 g | USDA |
| Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid | 53.2 mg | USDA |
| Potassium | 181 mg | USDA |
| Folate, total | 30 µg | USDA |
| Calcium | 40 mg | USDA |
Which lab parameters does orange relate to?
Vitamin C
Vitamin C supports the immune system and helps the body absorb non-heme iron from plant foods [WHO].
Folate
Folate is needed to make and repair DNA and to form red blood cells [WHO].
Potassium
Potassium helps nerves and muscles work and helps balance the body's fluids [WHO].
Vegetarian and dietary notes
Oranges are an unprocessed plant fruit suitable for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dietary patterns.
Frequently asked questions
How much vitamin C is present in 100 grams of raw orange?
Raw orange contains 53.2 mg of vitamin C per 100 g [USDA]. Vitamin C functions as an antioxidant and is a cofactor required for collagen biosynthesis and carnitine metabolism.
What is the dietary fiber content of an orange?
Raw orange provides 2.4 g of total dietary fiber per 100 g [USDA], consisting of both soluble fibers like pectin and insoluble structural fibers.
What biological role does the potassium in oranges serve?
Raw orange contains 181 mg of potassium per 100 g [USDA]. Potassium is a major intracellular cation that participates in regulating cell membrane potential and fluid balance.
Does orange contain folate, and what is its physiological role?
Raw orange contains 30 µg of folate per 100 g [USDA]. Folate operates as a coenzyme in nucleic acid synthesis and the metabolism of amino acids.
What types of sugars and carbohydrates make up an orange?
Per 100 g, raw orange contains 11.75 g of total carbohydrate, of which 9.35 g is total sugars comprising sucrose, glucose, and fructose [USDA].
Sources
- USDA — USDA FoodData Central, Agricultural Research Service. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/
- WHO — World Health Organization — nutrition fact sheets. https://www.who.int/