5 Foods With More Vitamin C Than an Orange
Explore potent alternatives to oranges for a vitamin C-rich diet boosting health and immunity.
Red Bell Peppers
Kiwi
Strawberries
Pineapple
Papaya
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For decades, oranges have been the universal symbol of vitamin C — the go-to fruit for boosting immunity, protecting against colds, and supporting overall health. While oranges do contain a good amount of vitamin C, they’re far from the richest source. Many fruits and vegetables actually offer higher concentrations of this essential nutrient.
Vitamin C is vital for:
Strengthening the immune system
Supporting collagen production
Improving iron absorption
Fighting inflammation
Protecting cells from oxidative stress
If you want a stronger immune system and healthier skin, it’s time to look beyond oranges.
Here are five powerful foods that contain even more vitamin C.
1. Red Bell Peppers — One of the Highest Natural Sources
Red bell peppers are surprisingly rich in vitamin C — even more than citrus fruits.
Vitamin C content:
1 red bell pepper = 190 mg of vitamin C
(That"s more than twice the amount found in an orange.)
Why red bell peppers are so nutritious:
Rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene
Excellent for skin health
Boost collagen production
Support healthy vision
Strengthen the immune system
Best ways to eat them:
Raw in salads
Sliced with hummus
Roasted
Stuffed and baked
Added to stir-fries
Red bell peppers are a vitamin C powerhouse — and incredibly versatile.
2. Kiwi — A Small Fruit With Big Nutritional Power
Kiwi may be small, but it packs an impressive amount of vitamin C — even more than oranges.
Vitamin C content:
1 medium kiwi = ~70 mg
(Eating two kiwis gives you more vitamin C than a whole orange.)
Why kiwi is exceptional:
Supports digestion (rich in fiber)
Improves sleep quality due to serotonin content
Helps reduce inflammation
Great for heart health
Rich in potassium, vitamin K, and antioxidants
Best ways to enjoy kiwi:
With yogurt
In fruit salads
As a smoothie ingredient
On its own
It’s sweet, tangy, refreshing — and nutrient-packed.
3. Strawberries — Delicious, Sweet, and Rich in Vitamin C
Strawberries are more than just a dessert fruit — they’re a major source of antioxidants and nutrients.
Vitamin C content:
1 cup of strawberries = 85 mg of vitamin C
(More than the average orange!)
Why strawberries are so beneficial:
Improve heart health
Lower inflammation
Reduce oxidative stress
Support healthy skin
Help regulate blood sugar
Ways to eat strawberries:
Fresh as a snack
With oatmeal
In smoothies
As a topping for pancakes
Dipped in dark chocolate (a guilt-free treat!)
Strawberries offer a sweet way to boost your immune system.
4. Pineapple — A Tropical Fruit Packed With Vitamin C
Pineapple is refreshing, hydrating, and packed with nutrients — especially vitamin C.
Vitamin C content:
1 cup of pineapple = ~80 mg of vitamin C
(Another fruit that beats oranges!)
Why pineapple is a superfood:
Contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion
Reduces inflammation
Supports immune health
Improves absorption of nutrients
Helps with post-exercise recovery
Best ways to eat pineapple:
Fresh slices
Fresh juice
Grilled as a dessert
In smoothies
Add to salads
Pineapple delivers tropical flavor with powerful health benefits.
5. Papaya — A Gentle, Easy-to-Digest Vitamin C Giant
Papaya is often underestimated, yet it’s one of the richest fruits in vitamin C.
Vitamin C content:
1 cup of papaya = ~88 mg of vitamin C
(Surpassing oranges by a large margin.)
Why papaya is a top immune-boosting fruit:
Contain digestive enzymes (papain)
Reduce inflammation
Support skin health
Help improve digestion
High in vitamins A, E, and folate
How to enjoy papaya:
Fresh slices
Blended with milk or yogurt
In tropical fruit salads
With lime juice for extra flavor
Papaya is gentle on the stomach — perfect for people with digestive issues.
🌟 Bonus: Other Foods Rich in Vitamin C
If you want even more options:
Broccoli
Brussels sprouts
Mango
Acerola cherries (one of the highest sources)
Guava
Kale
Cantaloupe
There are plenty of ways to boost vitamin C naturally — without drinking orange juice every day.