Minerals in pomelo include potassium (38 percent of your daily recommended needs) and smaller amounts of phosphorus, copper, iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, and zinc.
Health Benefits
Like most citrus fruits, pomelo health benefits come primarily from the vitamin C it provides. Vitamin C must be consumed in the diet because our bodies are unable to make it naturally.
Vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) is essential for good bone structure, cartilage, muscle, and blood vessels. It aids in the absorption of iron, promotes wound-healing, and it may also help to prevent disease. In fact, studies investigating the role of citrus in cancer prevention are showing that these fruits may provide a positive benefit. However, research is ongoing.
You'll also get a small boost of fiber when you pomelo.
Most of us don't get enough fiber in our diets. Fiber helps to boost satiety, improves digestive health, and may help to lower blood cholesterol. Current guidelines suggest that you consume 20 to 35 grams of fiber each day.
Common Questions
How Should I Select the Best Pomelo?
The hardest part about buying pomelo may be finding it in your local market. Not all American grocery stores carry the fruit. But many Asian markets sell the fruit and some online grocers may have them as well. Keep in mind that they may be labeled as "pummelo" or "shaddock" (a traditional name for the fruit).
Pomelos are very large, certainly bigger than a grapefruit. You may see pomelos that are pear-shaped. They also have thicker skin than their fruit cousins. The flesh of a pomelo should yield slightly when pressed.
Can I Eat All of the Pomelo?
You'll want to remove the thick skin and also the whitish membrane before consuming pomelo.
When and Where Is Pomelo in Season?
The United States, particularly California, has become the largest producer of pomelo. You may be able to find it year-round in some markets. But you'll find it in farmer's markets in California in the winter.
Cooking and Preparation Tips
Many people eat pomelo sliced or cubed. You can throw it into a green or fruit salad, or toss it in the blender when you're making a fruit smoothie. Pomelo also pairs well with other tropical fruits like banana, cantaloupe, and pineapple.
