Lemons
Lemons/Rēmana
Availability
In New Zealand the bulk of the lemon crop is harvested between June and March. As we import lemons they are available all year round.
Storage and Handling
Store at room temperature. Handle all fresh produce with care and wash before eating.
History
It is thought that lemons originated in the Punjab region of Pakistan and India, and from there, spread around the world. There is evidence the ancient Greeks and Romans used lemons, and that the Arabs took them to Spain and Africa in the 12th and 14th centuries. Sailors carried lemons and limes on board to prevent the disease scurvy, which is caused by a lack of vitamin C.
Facts
- Lemon juice prevents cut apples, pears and avocados from turning brown
Growing Facts
- Lemons grow in tropical and subtropical climates and cannot stand frosts or very cold temperatures
- As lemon trees flower several times in a season, they can have several crops of different ages growing all at once
- The fruit is harvested several times during a season with the main crop picked in the winter
Nutrition Information
Lemons are a good source of vitamin C.
You will find the full Nutrition Information Panel on the New Zealand Food Composition Data website. This website is owned jointly by Plant & Food Research and the Manatū Hauora Ministry of Health. This website holds the most comprehensive collection of high-quality nutrient data for New Zealand foods. The Database is managed and maintained by dedicated Plant & Food Research staff.