Why is lemon so bitter?
Recently, the topic of lemons tasting bitter has sparked a lot of discussion on social media. Many netizens reported that the lemons they bought tasted obviously bitter, which was quite different from the previous sweet and sour taste. This article will combine the hot discussions on the Internet in the past 10 days, analyze the reasons why lemons become bitter from a scientific perspective, and provide practical solutions.
1. Statistics of hot discussions on the entire network
| platform | Amount of related topics | main focus |
|---|---|---|
| 128,000 items | Variety differences and storage methods | |
| Douyin | 52,000 views | Choose techniques and methods to relieve suffering |
| little red book | 36,000 notes | Impact on planting environment, pesticide residues |
| Zhihu | 478 questions | Chemical composition analysis, variety characteristics |
2. Three major reasons why lemons are bitter
1.Variety factors
| Variety | Bitter substance content | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Ulric | low | Common market varieties |
| perfume lemon | in | Thin skin and juicy |
| Bergamot Lemon | high | Rough peel |
2.Planting environment impact
The recent high temperature and drought weather in many places has led to an increase in the content of limonin in lemons, which is the main source of the bitter taste of citrus fruits. Data shows that when the temperature exceeds 35°C, the limonin content may increase by 40%-60%.
3.Improper storage and handling
| Wrong operation | result | solution |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated for more than 7 days | Cell rupture releases picrin | Store in room temperature and ventilation |
| Cut and leave for more than 2 hours | enzymatic oxidation reaction | Ready to cut |
| Soak skin in hot water | Dissolve white myelin | Water temperature is controlled below 60°C |
3. Practical techniques for eliminating suffering
1.Selection Tips
Choose fruits with smooth, elastic skin and even color, and avoid lemons with obvious sunken or hard spots. The latest consumer report shows that lemons weighing between 120-150g have the lowest incidence of bitterness.
2.Treatment method
| method | Operation steps | efficient |
|---|---|---|
| Salt water soak | Soak in 5% salt water for 15 minutes | 78% |
| Microwave to remove bitterness | Heat on medium heat for 20 seconds | 85% |
| Candied treatment | Marinate in powdered sugar for 30 minutes | 92% |
3.Food recommendations
Removing the white sponge layer can reduce bitterness by more than 70%. If used to prepare drinks, it is recommended to marinate lemon slices in honey for 10 minutes, which can effectively neutralize bitter substances.
4. Expert interpretation
The latest research from the Citrus Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences pointed out that the abnormal weather in the summer of 2023 caused the average bitterness content of lemons nationwide to increase by 23.5% year-on-year. Consumers are advised to choose fresh fruits in season and pay attention to the following three points:
• Consume within 3 days of purchase
• Store away from direct sunlight
• Remove seeds and white meridians before juicing
At present, a new low-bitter variety "Sweetheart Lemon" has been planted on a trial basis and is expected to be launched on a large scale next year. Special groups of people, such as pregnant women or those with sensitive gastrointestinal tracts, are recommended to choose lemon products that have been debitterized.
From the above analysis, it can be seen that the bitterness of lemons is the result of a combination of factors. Master the correct selection and processing methods, and you can continue to enjoy the refreshing taste of lemons.
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