As a seasonal grocery store owner, I’ve seen a lot of customers come in looking for specific items, but there’s one question I hear almost every day, “Where is the lemon juice?” If you’re one of these customers, don’t worry, you’re not alone! Lemon juice is something that’s often used in cooking and baking, as well as in cocktails and as a natural cleaning agent, so it’s a versatile and popular item that many people need to locate in the grocery store.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the steps of finding lemon juice in a typical grocery store so you can quickly and easily locate it on your next shopping trip. From the different sections of the store it might be found in the specific brands you might see, I’ll give you all the information you need to make your next lemon juice purchase a breeze.
What is Lemon Juice Used for?
Lemon juice is a popular ingredient in cooking, baking, and cocktails because of its bright citrus flavour. It can be used to make marinades and sauces, or added to drinks like teas and mixed drinks. It also has natural cleaning properties since it contains citric acid which makes it an effective disinfectant when diluted with water.
Different Types of Lemon Juice
When shopping for lemon juice, you will come across different types. They all have unique characteristics, so it’s essential to know which one to choose for your recipe.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is squeezed from a whole lemon. It has a tangy and sharp taste, and it’s perfect for cooking and baking.
- Bottled Lemon Juice: Bottled lemon juice is a convenient option that can save you time and effort. It is made from real lemons, and it’s ideal for recipes that require a large amount of lemon juice.
- Concentrated Lemon Juice: Concentrated lemon juice is made by removing most of the water from the lemon juice. It has a higher acidity level, so it’s perfect for preserving food or making popsicles and sorbet.
Where is Lemon Juice in the Grocery Store?
When you first enter a grocery store, it can be overwhelming. There are aisles and sections everywhere, and it’s easy to get lost. However, lemon juice is typically located in the same spot in every grocery store. Here are the sections where you can find lemon juice:
In the Produce Section
One of the most obvious places where you might find lemon juice at a grocery store is the produce section. Look for fresh lemons, limes, or other citrus fruits. If you look closely, you might find bottled lemon juice on the same shelf as these fresh fruits. However, not all grocery stores carry bottled lemon juice in the produce section. If you can’t find it here, don’t worry – there’s more.
In the Juice Aisle
Another place where you might find lemon juice in the grocery store is the juice aisle. This is where you’ll find all sorts of juices, both fresh and bottled. Check the juice section for small bottles of lemon juice, usually in the same area as other citrus juices like orange and grapefruit. Labelling can be confusing sometimes, so make sure to carefully read the label before making the purchase.
In the Condiment Section
Most grocery stores also keep lemon juice in the condiment section, along with other vinegar and oils. Look for a small bottle labelled “lemon juice.” It will usually be beside other condiments like ketchup, mustard, and soy sauce. Most of the time, bottled lemon juice is located near the dressings and marinades.
In the Frozen Section
Yes, you heard it right! Some grocery stores carry frozen lemon juice in the frozen section. Usually, this is with the concentrates. You can use this frozen lemon juice to make lemon drinks, smoothies, and other frozen treats!
Asking the Store Associates
If you’ve checked all these areas and still can’t find lemon juice, don’t panic! Asking the store associates for help is a good idea. They are usually very knowledgeable about their store and can assist you in finding any items you’re looking for. They can also lead you to different sections of the grocery store where lemon juice might be available.
Read about: Where Do You Find Xanthan Gum in the Grocery Store?
Best Lemon Juice Brands to Buy
When it comes to finding lemon juice in the grocery store, you may come across a variety of brands. Some of the most common include Minute Maid, ReaLemon, and Santa Cruz. In addition, many stores have their own brand of lemon juice, which can be a cheaper alternative.
Some store brands include 365 Everyday Value from Whole Foods, Simply Nature Organic from Aldi, and Food Lion. When considering brands, be sure to take note of any differences between them such as whether or not it is as a concentrate or as a ready-to-use product.
Things to Check Before Buying Lemon Juice in the Grocery Store
Here are some helpful tips that may make finding lemon juice a little easier in the grocery store:
- Check the baking, juice, and condiment aisles for lemon juice.
- Look for popular brands such as Minute Maid or ReaLemon.
- Consider “not from concentrate” juice for a more potent flavor.
- Be aware of store brands as a potentially cheaper alternative.
- Remember that some stores may not offer all types or varieties of lemon juice.
- Check the price per unit to compare prices across brands.
Conclusion
Finding lemon juice in the grocery store doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding where to look and what to look for, you’ll be able to quickly and easily find the type of lemon juice you need for your next recipe or cleaning project. Whether it’s bottled juice, not from concentrate, or an organic option, look for popular brands and compare prices to ensure a great shopping experience. Next time you’re in the grocery store, you won’t have to wonder “Where is lemon juice?” because you’ll be an expert. Happy shopping!
