Founded with a passion for citrus excellence, Cecelia Packing Corporation has been a trusted name in premium, fresh citrus production for decades. Located in the heart of California’s fertile San Joaquin Valley, Cecelia Packing is committed to growing and distributing the finest quality oranges.
From its beginnings, the company has prioritized innovation and tradition, blending time-honored agricultural practices with modern techniques. This dedication ensures that every orange bearing the Cecelia name meets rigorous standards for flavor, freshness, and sustainability. Cecelia’s focus on quality has earned them a reputation for producing citrus that delights customers worldwide.
Varieties of High-Quality Oranges from Cecelia Packing
Cecelia Packing offers a wide range of juicy oranges, each with unique characteristics that make them exceptional in flavor and quality. Here’s a closer look at their offerings:
Navels
The classic California Navel Orange is renowned for its seedless interior, easy-to-peel rind, and perfectly balanced sweetness. This variety traces its roots back to 1873 when Eliza Tibbetts planted the first navel orange trees in Riverside, California. Navels are celebrated for their vibrant orange color, juicy flesh, and refreshing flavor, making them a favorite for snacking and juicing. Cecelia’s Navels are carefully harvested at peak ripeness to ensure they retain their superior taste and texture.
Heirloom Navels (Sky Valley)
Cecelia’s Sky Valley Heirloom Navels represent a return to tradition. The Sky Valley Ranch features old-line Washington Navel trees planted in the 1930s, whose mature rootstock imparts a unique flavor profile. Unlike some modern varieties, these heirloom oranges prioritize taste over yield. Sky Valley Heirlooms are known for their deep, rich sweetness and exceptionally aromatic flesh, reminiscent of the oranges that built California’s citrus legacy.
Cara Caras
Cara Cara oranges, also known as “Red Navels,” are a standout variety with their striking pinkish-red flesh. Discovered as a natural mutation of the Washington Navel in Venezuela, Cara Caras are sweeter and less acidic than traditional navels. They offer a complex flavor profile with hints of cherry and berry, making them a gourmet choice. Packed with antioxidants like lycopene and vitamin C, Cara Caras combine exceptional taste with impressive nutritional benefits.
Minneola Tangelos
A hybrid of the Dancy tangerine and Duncan grapefruit, Minneola Tangelos are prized for their distinctive bell-shaped appearance and sweet-tart flavor. Their juicy, aromatic flesh and vibrant orange-red rind make them a popular choice for fresh eating and juicing. Minneolas are easy to peel and have minimal seeds, enhancing their appeal. Cecelia’s Minneola Tangelos are grown with care to ensure a bright, zesty taste that perfectly balances sweetness and tanginess.
Gold Nuggets (Dimples)
Gold Nuggets, marketed as Dimples, are a late-season mandarin variety celebrated for their unique, bumpy rind and intense sweetness. This seedless variety is easy to peel and boasts a rich, honey-like flavor that’s perfect for snacking. Gold Nuggets are often considered one of the finest mandarins due to their exceptional sweetness and long shelf life. Cecelia’s Dimples are handpicked to ensure only the highest-quality fruit reaches consumers.
Blood Oranges (Red Velvet Navels)
Cecelia’s Red Velvet Navels, a type of blood orange, are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Their deep red flesh and unique raspberry-like flavor set them apart from other citrus varieties. Packed with anthocyanins, a type of antioxidant, blood oranges are not only flavorful but also a nutritional powerhouse. Perfect for culinary creations and fresh consumption, Red Velvet Navels bring a touch of elegance to any dish.
Valencias
Known as the ultimate juicing orange, Valencias are a summer favorite. Their vibrant orange flesh, well-balanced sweetness, and slight tanginess make them ideal for fresh-squeezed juice. Originating from Spain and Portugal, Valencias have a rich history in California, dating back to the 1840s. Cecelia’s Valencias are harvested at their peak to ensure optimal juiciness and flavor, making them a staple for citrus enthusiasts.
The Harvesting Process: Cecelia’s Secret
Cecelia Packing’s harvesting process is designed to preserve the taste and freshness of their oranges. Each piece of fruit is handpicked to avoid bruising and ensure only the best oranges make it to market. The oranges are then carefully sorted, graded, and packaged to maintain their quality throughout the distribution process. By adhering to strict harvesting and handling standards, Cecelia Packing ensures that customers receive oranges bursting with flavor and nutrition.
A Commitment to Sustainability Practices
Cecelia Packing is dedicated to sustainable farming practices that protect the environment and support future citrus production. From efficient irrigation systems to reduce water waste to integrated pest management that minimizes chemical use, Cecelia prioritizes eco-friendly methods. These practices not only benefit the planet but also contribute to the superior taste of Cecelia’s oranges by fostering healthy, nutrient-rich soils.
Culinary Tips and Ideas
Cecelia Packing oranges are a versatile addition to any kitchen. Use Navels or Cara Caras in fresh salads for a burst of color and flavor. Minneola Tangelos and Valencias are perfect for crafting refreshing juices or cocktails. Blood oranges can elevate desserts like sorbets or tarts with their vibrant hue and tangy sweetness. Gold Nuggets make an ideal snack for their sweetness and easy-to-peel nature.
No matter how you use them, Cecelia’s delicious oranges add a touch of brightness and nutrition to every meal. Give us a call today at (559) 626-5000.