Why Some People Advise Against Eating the Fruit from Orange Trees Used for Chinese New Year Decorations

During Chinese New Year (CNY) celebrations, it's common to see orange or kumquat trees adorning homes, shops, and businesses. These trees, with their vibrant orange fruits, are believed to bring good fortune, prosperity, and luck. However, while they are visually appealing and widely used for decoration, some people advise against eating the fruit from these trees. Here’s a guide on why this advice exists and what to consider before consuming the fruit.

1. Purpose of the Trees and Their Fruit

• Symbolic Significance:
  The primary purpose of orange and kumquat trees during Chinese New Year is symbolic. The fruit, especially the small kumquat, is a representation of wealth and prosperity. In Mandarin, the word for "orange" (橙, chéng) sounds similar to the word for "wealth" (成, chéng), while "kumquat" (金桔, jīn jú) sounds like "golden" (金, jīn), which further associates the fruit with good fortune.

• Decorative Use:
  These trees are typically used for decoration to attract positive energy during the festive period. The fruit’s role is largely ornamental, and it’s not usually grown for consumption, especially during the Chinese New Year.

2. Potential Chemical Exposure

• Pesticides and Chemicals:
  Since the fruit trees used for CNY decorations are often cultivated for ornamental purposes, they may have been treated with pesticides or other chemicals to maintain their appearance. These chemicals may not be safe for consumption, as the fruit was never intended to be eaten.

• Post-Harvest Treatments:
  Some trees may have been sprayed with wax or other substances to make the fruit look shiny and appealing for decoration. These substances are not suitable for consumption and may cause harm if ingested.

• Lack of Organic Certification:
  Many of the orange and kumquat trees used for decoration are not grown under organic conditions. The lack of certification means that the fruit could have been exposed to harmful substances that are not intended to be ingested.

3. The Fruit’s Age and Ripeness

• Maturity and Ripeness:
  The fruit on these trees may not be ripe when they are used for decoration. Because they are meant to be displayed and not consumed, they are often harvested before they reach full maturity. Immature fruit can be sour, bitter, or unpleasant to eat and may not be safe for consumption, especially if they haven't been handled properly.

• Dehydration and Preservation:
  Some of the fruit may dry out or become overripe during the display period. After a certain time on the tree, the fruit loses its freshness and flavor, becoming unsuitable for consumption. In addition, the fruit may become contaminated with mold or bacteria if left for too long.

4. Cultural Beliefs and Practices

• Cultural Superstitions:
  In some traditions, it’s believed that the fruits on the CNY trees are “sacred” or imbued with symbolic meaning. Eating the fruit may be seen as diminishing its auspicious value or interrupting the positive energy it is meant to attract. In this context, people prefer to leave the fruit on the tree as part of the symbolic representation of prosperity and wealth.

• Respecting the Tradition:
  For many, eating the fruit from the Chinese New Year decorations could be considered disrespectful to the cultural and symbolic practices associated with the holiday. Instead of eating the fruit, it’s common for people to offer prayers for prosperity while maintaining the tree’s decorative presence.

5. Unintended Effects on Health

• Possible Allergic Reactions:
  For individuals with citrus allergies, the fruit on the trees could trigger allergic reactions. Since these fruits are often handled by many people throughout the celebration period, they may carry allergens or bacteria that can affect sensitive individuals.

• Digestive Discomfort:
  Since the fruit may not be fresh, consuming it could lead to digestive issues, such as stomach discomfort or food poisoning. This risk increases if the fruit has been stored for an extended period without proper care.

6. Better Alternatives for Consumption

• Fresh Fruit for Eating:
  If you’re craving citrus fruits during Chinese New Year, it’s better to purchase fresh, ripe oranges or kumquats from a grocery store or market. These fruits are grown specifically for consumption and are usually treated under safe and regulated conditions.

• Fruit for Symbolism Only:
  Use the fruit from the CNY tree as a decorative element to attract good luck and prosperity. Enjoy its symbolism and vibrant presence without the need to consume it.

While the fruit on orange and kumquat trees used for Chinese New Year decorations is visually appealing and holds significant cultural meaning, there are several reasons why it’s generally advised not to eat the fruit. Concerns about pesticides, the fruit’s ripeness, cultural traditions, and health risks all play a role in this advice. Instead, enjoy the tree's ornamental beauty and symbolic significance, and opt for fresh, ripe fruit for consumption from a trusted source.