When choosing oranges, pay close attention to the navel. Large navel oranges often look impressive but usually contain more peel, less juice, and a bland taste because the navel is filled with a white membrane and fewer segments. They tend to be drier and less sweet.
Small navel oranges, however, have thinner skin, more juice, and sweeter segments. Their subtle navel is a good sign of better flavor and higher water content. So when buying oranges, always check the navel first—small navels usually mean the fruit will taste much better.