Grapefruit varieties bring different flavor profiles, from sweet to sharp and tangy. The deeper the color, the sweeter the taste—red usually beats white or pink. Before we read about the varieties, it’s worth noting a health detail that often gets overlooked. Grapefruit can interact with some medications. Even small amounts may affect how certain drugs work, so check with your doctor if you take prescription drugs.
Ruby Red Grapefruit
This Texas-native fruit has gained popularity for good reasons. It has a sweeter flavor than many others, with minimal bitterness. The flesh varies from light pink to rich red and can be savored raw, blended into juices, or cut into salad toppings. Its bright hue even enhances the visual attraction of any meal.
Thompson Grapefruit
Thompson grapefruit offers that soft pink look and an easygoing flavor. You get the juice without the bitter, harsh bite, making it perfect for both snacking and mixing into dressings or desserts. It’s also a favorite for juicing.
White Grapefruit
White grapefruits resemble oversized lemons and pack a notable tart punch. Unlike colored varieties, they possess a stronger bitter note, though a subtle sweetness still lies beneath. Many enjoy this as a classic breakfast addition, where a spoonful of honey can help soften the taste.
Pomelo Grapefruit
Bigger than all others, pomelo serves a crisp texture with gentle sweetness. The rind feels thick and peels slowly. Inside, expect large sections that hold shape well. Some even describe the flavor as floral. It’s not overly juicy, but it’s still refreshing and a solid option when you want volume over liquid.
Pink Grapefruit
You’ll see this one the most in grocery stores. It has bright pink flesh filled with juice and works well in fruit salads or when eaten plain. Anticipate a blend of tangy and sweet flavors here. People usually picture this when they hear the word “grapefruit.”
Star Ruby Grapefruit
Developed in Texas, the variety brings rich color and a smoother flavor. High juice content makes it a favorite for fruit bowls and refreshing drinks. Offering a sweet-tart balance without going overboard, the flavor suits anyone who prefers a milder citrus experience.
Red Blush Grapefruit
Ruby Blush has a soft red hue on both the rind and flesh. Sweetness and tanginess are evenly matched. It’s ideal for fresh eating, juicing, or adding to recipes that could use a little color and citrus lift.
Duncan Grapefruit
Duncan ranks among the oldest known grapefruit varieties. It offers a bold, classic citrus flavor with a high juice content. Though it contains seeds, many still rank it among the best-tasting. Its white flesh and rich taste make it popular for juicing and fresh-cut citrus platters.
Oro Blanco Grapefruit
A verified hybrid of pomelo and white grapefruit, Oro Blanco (“white gold”) delivers a sweet profile with noticeably less acidity than traditional grapefruits. It features pale flesh and a thick rind, both inherited from its pomelo lineage.
Marsh Grapefruit
Marsh grapefruit is the first commercially successful seedless variety and remains a standard in commercial production. Known for its consistent quality and classic grapefruit taste, Marsh maintains good flavor throughout its growing season. Its reliable juice content and balanced flavor make it a preferred choice for commercial juicing operations.
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