Lemon

Also listed as Lemons, Fresh Lemon, and Lemon Juice Fruit.

Produce

This is what the ingredient is.

Lemons are a tart citrus fruit. Labels may say lemon or fresh lemons.

Here is why it shows up on the label.

They are juiced and zested for drinks, dressings, marinades, and baked goods.

Here is what food agencies say.

Citrus fruit is covered by FDA produce safety and import rules.

Here is what research has found.

Whole lemons are rarely recalled; processed lemon products may appear for pathogens or labeling issues.

Here are a few things worth knowing.

Wash before zesting. Bottled lemon juice follows separate labeling rules.

Sources

  • FDA Food Labeling
  • USDA FSIS
  • FDA Recalls

How to read this page

We publish plain facts about this ingredient so a label is easier to read. This is not medical advice, and it is not a recommendation to buy, avoid, or use anything. For a personal health question, talk with a clinician who knows your history.

v1.0Updated 9/16/2026