Both lemon and lime are generally referred to as one. In fact Lemons and limes belong to the most popular citrus fruits family in the world. Though they both are genetically different but are closely related and have a lot in common. Having similar properties they are different at some or the other point.
These two fruits are well known for their acidic, sour flavor and are utilized in a number of different industries. They may be used in cooking, food preservation, cosmetic and medicinal purposes or simply to impart flavor. These two contain many other plant compounds with known antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties.
Lime and Lemon Nutritional Aspect
A 100-gram serving of either fruit provides the following nutrients:
| Lemons | Limes | |
| Calories | 29 | 30 |
| Carbs | 9g | 11g |
| Fiber | 3g | 3g |
| Fat | 0g | 0g |
| Protein | 1g | 1g |
| Calcium | 21.8 mg | 22.1 mg |
| Potassium | 116 mg | 68.3 mg |
| Phosphorous | 16 mg | 18 mg |
| Vitamin C | 88% of the RDI | 48% of the RDI |
| Iron | 3% of the RDI | 3% of the RDI |
| Vitamin B6 | 4% of the RDI | 2% of the RDI |
| Vitamin B9 (folate) | 3% of the RDI | 2% of the RDI |
*These nutrients reflect what is present in a whole lemon or lime, not in the juice. This is a rough idea.
Although they have slightly different values, the difference is too small to have any effect.
While lemons and limes have many similarities, they have some differences as well. From the appearance to texture and shape, from flavour to taste, they stand apart in many ways and that’s the reason why chefs and food experts consider them two different entities. Let’s find out what makes both different from each other.
Difference between Lemon and Lime
· Lemons are formally known as Citrus limon while limes are known as or Citrus aurantifolia
· Lemons are typically grown in moderate climates while limes grow better in tropical and subtropical regions.
· Lemons are usually bright yellow, while limes are typically green in color. However, certain types of limes turn yellow on ripening, which makes them similar to lemon.
· The lemons have a thick skin while if we talk about limes, they have thin skin that can be easily peeled off.
· Limes are smaller and rounder which are usually 1–2 inches (3–6 centimeters) in diameter. Lemons tend to be 2–4 inches (7–12 centimeters) in diameter and have a more oval or oblong shape.
· In terms of flavor, lemons tend to be on the side of slightly sweet. Limes are usually described as bitterer than lemons. The generic taste of lime makes it stand out in any preparation.
· According to food experts, limes can be stored in the refrigerator for not more than two weeks, at a constant temperature of +4 degrees. While lemons can be stored in the refrigerator for about two months.
Though lemons and limes are different, both the fruits bear many of the same properties. Consuming both in moderate amounts is generally safe.