Why is lemon water bitter

The bitterness of lemon water is usually related to the lemon variety, prolonged soaking time, or improper skin treatment. In rare cases, it may be caused by spoilage or pesticide residues. Lemonin and naringin in lemons are the main sources of bitterness, and proper treatment can avoid bitterness. The most common reason for the bitter taste of lemon water is the use of lemon varieties with thicker skins, which contain a large amount of limonoid substances in their skin and white sponge layer. If fresh lemon slices are soaked in warm water or hot water for a long time, naringin in the peel will continue to dissolve, and the bitterness release rate will accelerate when the water temperature exceeds 60 degrees. If the pits or white inner membrane are not completely removed during production, the bitter taste can also be caused by the dissolution of limonin. Partial bitterness may be related to improper storage, as lemon skins can easily oxidize and deteriorate, resulting in abnormal bitterness. In rare cases, pesticide or preservative residues in the fruit peel that have not been thoroughly cleaned may also cause irritating bitterness.

When the bitterness is mild, it can be improved by shortening the soaking time. It is best to slice the lemon and brew it in cold water within 20 minutes before drinking. For those who are sensitive to bitterness, it is recommended to peel and use pulp, or choose low bitter varieties such as perfume lemon. If the bitterness is accompanied by discoloration and odor of the fruit flesh, it should be immediately stopped from drinking. Daily storage of lemons requires refrigeration and consumption as soon as possible. When cleaning, the skin can be rubbed with salt to remove residue.

It is recommended to pair lemon water with honey or mint leaves to enhance the taste and avoid drinking on an empty stomach to prevent gastrointestinal irritation. The recommended daily intake is 300 milliliters of water soaked in 1-2 slices of lemon, as long-term excessive intake may damage tooth enamel. Choose fresh lemons with smooth and spot free surfaces, and rinse them with running water for at least 15 seconds before making to effectively reduce the risk of bitterness.