A lemon's interior is surprisingly complex! It's more than just juice; several distinct parts contribute to its overall structure and flavor.
Key Components of a Lemon:
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Endocarp (Pulp): This is the juicy part we all know and love. It's pale yellow and segmented, containing numerous juice sacs—elongated cells filled with water, carbohydrates, and citric acid. These sacs are what give lemons their characteristic tartness and refreshing quality. [Reference: ENDOCARP (pulp) provided] Each segment often holds a seed, though not always.
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Flavedo (Peel): This is the outermost layer, the vibrant yellow rind. It contains essential oils that give lemons their distinctive aroma and flavor.
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Albedo: Situated between the flavedo and the endocarp, this is the white, spongy pith. It's less flavorful than the other parts, but contributes to the overall texture of the fruit.
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Columnella (Central Axis): This is the central core of the lemon, where the segments connect.
The juice itself contains a variety of compounds that contribute to its taste and potential health benefits, including citric acid, hesperidin, diosmin, eriocitrin, and d-limonene. [Reference: Lemons 101: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits]
Occasionally, you might even find a seed or two sprouting inside a lemon! This happens when the fruit's own hormones trigger germination within the fruit itself. [Reference: My lemon seed germinated inside the lemon]
In Summary:
The inside of a lemon comprises juicy segments (endocarp) filled with juice sacs, a white pith (albedo), and a central core (colummella). The amount of juice and seeds can vary from lemon to lemon.
