Lemon zest is the thin, bright yellow, outermost layer of a lemon's peel, packed with fragrant essential oils. It provides an intense, concentrated lemon flavor. Zest is created by grating, shaving, or peeling the lemon skin.

Yes! Lemons are a citrus fruit. Sunkist® Lemons do it all: the juice provides a sharp, tenderizing acidity for savory meats, while the zest offers an aromatic lift for your favorite bakes. From the first sip of a cocktail to the final bite of dinner, they are your most versatile ingredient.

Go S’alternative® by swapping salt for fresh Sunkist® lemon juice and zest. Research by master chefs at Johnson & Wales University shows you can cut sodium by up to 75% across various recipes without losing any flavor. It’s a simple, healthy win for every meal. Lemons also have 25% of your recommended daily Vitamin C! See above nutrition section for more information.

Whole lemons last about 1 week on the counter, but in the refrigerator, they can stay fresh for 4–6 weeks, especially if stored in an airtight container. Cut lemons should be wrapped in plastic or placed in a container, lasting 3–4 days in the fridge. Rule of thumb is if your lemon is rock hard, it’s probably time to compost it!