Top NHS doctor explains why you should never throw orange peel in the bin

03 June 2024 , 15:39

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Orange zest can give extra nutrition (Image: Getty Images)

Even when you plan your meals meticulously, there's often a bit of waste left over.

However, an expert has shared why these leftovers shouldn't just be tossed in the trash. Home cooks are being urged to rethink what they consider scraps, as these bits could actually be the highlight of their dishes or serve another purpose in the kitchen.

NHS surgeon Dr Karan Raj, who shared advice with his 5.3 million TikTok followers, explained: "When eating an orange, don't discard the orange peel. You probably don't want to eat these directly but you can use the zest for extra nutrition."

He highlighted that orange peels are packed with nutrients, stating: "The orange peel itself is rich in a soluble dietary fibre called pectin. The peels contain high levels of Vitamin C - sometimes as much as, if not more, the flesh of the fruit itself." Dr Raj also noted the health benefits of the peels: "The peel contains carotenoids and polyphenols which are anti-inflammatory compounds. For example, you can have it as a topping on ice creams or even with cakes or yoghurt."

Recent studies back up his claims, showing that orange peels have a higher concentration of beneficial plant compounds like polyphenols compared to the fruit's interior, reports Gloucestershire Live. A 2023 study revealed that peels possess greater amounts of phenolic compounds, vitamin C, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity than the seeds and pulp of each citrus variety.

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In the same clip, Dr Raj urges people not to discard seeds from butternut squashes and pumpkins. Championing them as "a great source of plant-based protein", he suggests roasting the seeds and tossing them into soups and salads or munching on them raw.

Common kitchen staples, onion and garlic, come with a less-known health trick. The online doctor added: "The skin of both can be added to soups, stocks and stews and removed prior to serving to extract all the beneficial nutrients like Vitamin A and C."

Andrew Nuttall