Tesco has launched what it claims is the world’s smallest citrus fruit, the aptly named Clementiny, into UK stores in time for Christmas.
The clementines, which are about a third of the size of normal clementines, originate from the wild forests of southern China and are notable for their high juice level.
The retailer is aiming them at small children as they are easy to peel and contain virtually no pips.
The fruit was unknown outside of China until they were discovered by a Swiss businessmen travelling in the country who then had them exported to Switzerland.
The clementines are grown in the remote Jianxi region of southern China and have a vivid orange colour which comes from a combination of the very pure water and rich soil in the area as well as contrasting day and night temperatures.
They were first cultivated by man 1300 years ago - historically the fruit was reserved solely for the emperor’s pleasure and Today it remains a favoured delicacy of the Chinese government.
Tesco citrus buyer Paul Cunningham said: “These little beauties should delight youngsters and parents alike as they’re not only the perfect size for Christmas stockings but also great for school lunchboxes as well.
“The little segments fit easily into tiny hands and are great for presenting toddlers the simplest opportunity to peel, pick and ultimately eat on their own.
“They will complement the rest of our growing range of mini versions of fruit - from baby bananas, mini mangoes, and fun sized apples.”
Each tree produces around 40kg of fruit per year. The fruit is currently on sale priced at £1.50 for a 350g carton.
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