Lemons come in various sizes, typically defined by their count per case, which correlates to their average diameter. Here's a breakdown of common lemon sizes, according to US Foods:
Lemon Sizes and Average Diameters
| Size (Count per Case) | Description | Average Diameter |
|---|---|---|
| 115 ct. | Lemons, Fresh Domestic/Imported | 2.410" |
| 140 ct. | Lemons, Fresh Domestic/Imported | 2.240" |
| 165 ct. | Lemons, Fresh Domestic/Imported | 2.130" |
| 200 ct. | Lemons, Fresh Domestic/Imported | 2.010" |
Understanding Lemon Sizing
- Count per Case: The "count" refers to the number of lemons that fit into a standard shipping case. A higher count means smaller individual lemons.
- Average Diameter: This measurement provides a tangible understanding of how large or small a lemon is across its middle. As you can see, the diameter ranges from about 2 inches to 2.4 inches depending on the count per case.
Practical Insights
- When buying lemons, the count often indicates size. If a recipe calls for the juice of two "large" lemons, and you have smaller 200 ct. lemons, consider using 3 or 4.
- Lemons are measured by diameter, and the larger the diameter, the smaller the count per case.
- These measurements are industry standards, helping to maintain consistent quality across domestic and imported lemons.
In conclusion, a lemon's size is variable, but it's important to be aware of the approximate size based on the count, and average diameter, specifically when using them in recipes.
