Limes are Very Useful Citrus Fruits

Have you ever heard a sailor being referred to as a “limey” in the movies or on television? Did you ever stop to think about what that name might mean and where in the world it came from? The term actually comes from a delicious citrus fruit commonly known as the lime. In earlier times, sailors would chow down on limes to help prevent scurvy, which is caused by a lack of Vitamin C in the diet and in the body. By using citrus fruits such as limes to prevent this disease, the sailors became known as “limeys”.

Would you have thought that the little green garnish that is often added as an accessory to your cocktail could have such an important health benefit? Limes much like the majority of other citrus fruits just so happen to be packed with Vitamin C, but you may be surprised to hear that they can also benefit your digestion, provide skin care, and even help you lose weight. Instead of taking a fat burning supplement, try drinking a glass of water with the juice from one lime, as the citric acid in these citrus fruits is a natural fat burner.

Most of the limes and many other citrus fruits in the United States today are grown in Florida. Florida limes are the originals, as this is where limes were first established thousands of years ago in America. In fact, approximately 90% of the lime production in the United States was in Florida until Hurricane Andrew came in 1992 and destroyed much of the agriculture. Citrus Florida limes, in particular the much sought after key limes, are still a heavily consumed and desired commodity today.

In addition to the notable and delicious key lime pie, Florida citrus fruits are also used in other foods and products that may not immediately come to mind. Limes are used in a variation of foods including pickles, candies, and beverages. The oil from the skin of the lime is used for mouth washes, deodorants, toothpaste, soaps and even some disinfectants. Many assume that it is only oranges as far as which citrus fruits can be used to clean products and keep your home smelling fresh, but limes as well as lemons are also citrus fruits used for these purposes.

Knowing exactly when to consume your citrus fruits is a common issue. How do you know when a lime is ripe and ready to eat? When the skin of the lime has a yellowish tint, appears to be small, or is either too hard or too soft, it may not yet be ripe. A ripe lime will feel weighted for its small appearance and is going to be firm to squeeze, but not as hard as a rock. The skin should also appear thin, not shriveled or coarse, as these are signs that the lime has gone bad and past its ripe stage. The next time you are ordering your vodka and tonic with a twist of lime, perhaps you can impress your friends with your new knowledge of the small Florida native that has so many practical uses beyond decorating your cocktail.

Taste the Sunshine with Hale Groves

At Hale Groves, we believe the best gifts come from the land, not a factory. For generations, our fruit has been grown slowly under the Florida sun, picked at its peak, and delivered fresh to your door. From sweet Navel Oranges to rare Honeybells, every gift shares the simple joy of real flavor—perfect for holidays, milestones, or everyday moments worth celebrating.

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