Lemon: what it contains and why it matters
Lemon is a sour citrus fruit (nimbu). This page lists its nutritional content from published sources and explains which lab parameters it relates to.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-04
Nutritional content of lemon
Per 100 g edible portion, from published composition data.
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Source |
|---|---|---|
| EnergyRaw lemon, peeled | 29 kcal | USDA |
| Protein | 1.1 g | USDA |
| Total lipid (fat) | 0.3 g | USDA |
| Carbohydrate | 9.32 g | USDA |
| Dietary fiber | 2.8 g | USDA |
| Vitamin C | 53 mg | USDA |
| Potassium | 138 mg | USDA |
| Calcium | 26 mg | USDA |
| Magnesium | 8 mg | USDA |
| Phosphorus | 16 mg | USDA |
Which lab parameters does lemon relate to?
Vitamin C
Vitamin C supports the immune system and helps the body absorb non-heme iron from plant foods [WHO].
Potassium
Potassium helps nerves and muscles work and helps balance the body's fluids [WHO].
Vegetarian and dietary notes
Lemon is a whole, raw plant fruit suitable for all vegetarian and vegan dietary patterns.
Frequently asked questions
How much vitamin C does raw lemon contain?
Raw lemon without peel contains 53.0 mg of vitamin C per 100 g [USDA].
What biological roles does vitamin C play in the body?
Vitamin C functions as an electron donor and antioxidant, participates as an enzymatic cofactor in collagen biosynthesis, and assists in the intestinal absorption of non-heme iron.
What is the fiber content of whole lemon pulp?
Whole raw lemon without peel provides 2.8 g of total dietary fiber per 100 g [USDA], including soluble fibers such as pectin.
What is the primary organic acid present in lemons?
Citric acid is the principal organic acid in lemons, which lowers the pH of the fruit and provides its sour profile.
How much potassium is supplied by raw lemon?
Raw lemon without peel supplies 138 mg of potassium per 100 g [USDA], an electrolyte involved in maintaining cellular fluid balance and resting membrane potentials.
Sources
- USDA — USDA FoodData Central, Agricultural Research Service. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/
- WHO — World Health Organization — nutrition fact sheets. https://www.who.int/