According to Elaine Kellman Grosinger, director of R&D, Citroil Enterprises, a manufacturer of organic lemon juices and oils, natural lemon flavor is perfect for formulating with basic flavors to help give them an added interest or zest. “For example, a basic grape flavor can be given a new twist with the addition of lemon flavor, as it tastes more alive and fresh. They also may aid formulation as they are good masking agents.” They are especially popular for masking the aftertastes of artificial sweeteners, or for masking the heavy chalkiness that might be found in nutraceutical products with vitamins or minerals added. “Mostly, they give foods or beverages a fresh feeling, especially useful in cooked beverages to help give them a more refreshing appeal,” adds Grosinger.
As lemon flavor has year-round interest, it is useful for a variety of products, such as in hot teas in the winter time and in iced teas in the summer. Grosinger states that interesting new products that could use the organic lemon flavors would be flavored lemonades, such as berry lemonade, or tropical lemonade.