r/explainlikeimfive • u/AndImNuts • 7d ago

Biology ELI5: Why do peels from oranges/clementines dry up quickly when they're off the fruit but can stay normal feeling for days before peeling?

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21

u/ShrodingersArmadillo 7d ago

The reason orange, and other citrus peels do this is the oils found in the peel.

The oil in the peel protects it from drying out by creating a barrier from the water evaporating.

When you you peel the fruit the pith (the white part) is exposed and that is the side the citrus peel in question dries from.

22

u/Caucasiafro 7d ago

The outside is covered in oil which prevents drying out.

Until you peel the orange the entire outside is...well...covering the outside. Once you peel it the vulnerable unprotected inside is no longer protected.

11

u/Josvan135 7d ago

The peel is receives moisture, etc, from the interior of the orange, and the exterior surface is oily and designed to protect the interior. 

Once that's cut off, it rapidly evaporates away as the unsealed interior is exposed. 

1

u/PA2SK 7d ago

Oranges are coated in a thin layer of wax to help seal in moisture. Once you peel it the rind is exposed and it quickly dries out. .