DID YOU KNOW  //  There are approximately 50 mandarin farms in Placer County, and each piece of fruit is handpicked; what's more, many local craft breweries use the juice for their mandarin IPAs. 

NUTRITION  //  These citrus gems have a unique property to help you get through the cold and flu season. The Satsuma variety, which is grown in Placer County, has a very high concentration of the phytochemical synephrine, a natural decongestant. A 2008 study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found our region’s mandarins had synephrine concentrations up to six times higher than values previously documented in orange juice. According to the study, 10 ounces of mandarin juice contained as much synephrine as one over-the-counter decongestant pill. Along with having heaps of vitamins A and C, calcium, and iron, they’re sweet, seedless, and easy to peel—making them a perfect snack for any occasion.

SELECTION AND STORAGE  //  Choose mandarins that are firm and heavy for their size. They may be stored for a few days in a cool, dark spot when spread into a single layer. Mandarin juice freezes well in small portions; try using ice cube trays, then transfer cubes to a storage bag or container in the freezer for use throughout the year.

For the recipe to make Mandarin and Vanilla Ice Cream Floats, visit http://www.stylergbr.com/2018/11/02/183359/placergrown-recipe-mandarin-and-vanilla-ice-cream-floats.

Join PlacerGROWN from November 16-18 for the Mountain Mandarin Festival at the Gold Country Fairgrounds featuring entertainment, local beer and wine tasting, cooking demonstrations, food vendors, and lots of tasty, locally grown mandarins! 

For details on where to buy Placer County farm-fresh produce, wine, meat, and other local products, visit placergrown.org.