Should you remove the white threads on tangerines? Here’s what experts say
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As Korea enters peak tangerine season, many people are once again peeling tangerines until their palms turn yellow. The citrus fruit is easy to enjoy without a knife, but one dilemma often follows: what to do with the white, string-like fibers stuck between the peel and the fruit?
These fibers are known as gyullak in Korean, and are a type of plant fiber also called “albedo.” They have little flavor and a slightly tough texture, prompting some people to pick them off before eating the fruit.
Yang Seung-ah, a 42-year-old mother, said, “I always remove the white threads for my kids. They look messy, and I feel like they probably don’t have much nutrition. I also worry that eating something tough like that might not be good for their stomach.”
But experts say the opposite is true. According to the Rural Development Administration, these white fibers are rich in pectin, a type of soluble dietary fiber that supports digestive health. “Pectin protects beneficial gut bacteria and helps strengthen the intestines,” the agency said. It can also ease constipation by stimulating bowel movement.
Gyullak also contains hesperidin, a plant compound known to help prevent vascular diseases and reduce inflammation.
“Although the threads may feel a bit tough, there is no need to remove them,” an official from the Rural Development Administration said. “The white fibers and even the peel contain vitamins and hesperidin, which help boost immunity.” The official added that anyone who wants to eat the peel, or dry it to make tangerine tea, should wash the fruit thoroughly with vinegar or salt.
This article from Kormedi.com, Korea’s top health care and medical portal, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.