Ingredient

Lemon

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Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Lemon is used to add a bright, tart flavor to a wide variety of …

What it is

Lemons are tart, yellow citrus fruits that grow on trees. They are widely cultivated in warm climates around the world. The juice and zest (outer peel) are used for flavoring.

Why it's used

Lemon is used to add a bright, tart flavor to a wide variety of foods and beverages. It is commonly found in desserts, candies, sauces, marinades, and drinks. Manufacturers use it as a natural flavor enhancer.

Health notes

Lemon is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use as a food ingredient. It is a good source of Vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient. International bodies like JECFA have evaluated lemon and its components. At typical consumption levels, lemon is not associated with adverse health effects.

Allergen info

Lemon is not one of the nine major allergens recognized by the FDA. It does not contain gluten.

Products containing Lemon

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Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.