If you have ever wondered whether lemon is a fruit or a vegetable, let me tell you that you are not the only one. And this is one of those questions that comes up more often than it may seem, especially with these foods that we consume almost daily.
Although many consider it simply a citrus fruit, there is more to its botanical classification than meets the eye.
In Frutas Poveda, experts in the production and distribution of lemons in Murcia, we want to clear this doubt once and for all.
Is lemon a fruit or a vegetable?
The lemon is, without a doubt, a fruit. Why? Because it comes from the ovary of a flower and contains seeds inside, which classifies it within the citrus fruits along with orange, lime and grapefruit.
However, the debate arises because lemon is not consumed as a “normal” fruit, but is generally used to flavor other dishes, as a salad dressing or as an ingredient in beverages. This causes some people to mistake it for a vegetable, but from a botanical point of view, it is not.
Botanical classification of lemon
To better understand why lemon is a fruit, let’s take a look at its scientific classification:
- Scientific name: Citrus limon
- Family: Rutaceae
- Type of fruit: Hesperidium (a variety of berry with a thick shell)
Hesperids are a special type of fleshy fruit with a hard shell that protects the pulp and seeds inside. This group includes other citrus fruits such as tangerine and grapefruit.
So, without a doubt, lemon is a fruit and not a vegetable.
Why do some consider it a vegetable?
The misconception that lemon is a vegetable comes from its use in cooking. Unlike other fruits, such as apples or bananas, lemon is not usually eaten directly. Rather, it is used as a condiment, in dressings, juices or to enhance the flavor of dishes and drinks.
The same happens with other foods such as tomatoes, which are botanically a fruit but are used in salads and sauces, giving the impression that they are a vegetable.
Health benefits of lemon
Now that we have clarified that lemon is a fruit, it is important to highlight the incredible benefits it brings to our health:
- High in vitamin C: Strengthens the immune system and helps prevent colds.
- Antioxidant properties: Protects cells against premature aging.
- Promotes digestion: Its acidity stimulates the production of gastric juices and facilitates digestion.
- Helps hydration: Mixing it with water is an excellent way to stay hydrated.
- Alkalinizes the body: Despite being acidic, lemon has an alkalizing effect on the body.
Although in this other post we talk more in depth about the types of lemons that exist and their benefits.
At Frutas Poveda, we produce lemons of the highest quality, guaranteeing their freshness and nutritional properties.
Conclusion: Lemon is a fruit, and a very versatile one.
Lemon is a citrus fruit with countless uses in the kitchen and can be used in many recipes. In addition, it has great health benefits.
Although it is not consumed as a conventional fruit, its botanical classification makes it clear: the lemon is not a vegetable.
If you are interested in learning more about lemons, fruit and healthy living, visit our news section, where we talk about their properties, benefits and applications in the kitchen.
Do you want to taste the best lemons from Murcia? Discover our products in Poveda Fruits and bring the best of the countryside to your table.
