When you put lemons in water, the acidity of the lemons helps to break down the cellular structure of the fruit, releasing all sorts of goodies like vitamin C and flavonoids into the water. This process is called osmosis, and it's what makes lemon water so refreshing and beneficial for our bodies. But, as time passes, the lemons can start to degrade, and the water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms.
Now, you might be thinking, "what's the worst that could happen if I leave my lemons in water for too long?" Well, let's just say you might end up with a batch of sour water that's more likely to make you pucker than refresh you! On a more serious note, if the water becomes contaminated, it can pose a risk to your health, so it's always best to err on the side of caution and change the water regularly.
Lemons stay fresh for 3 months if you take 30 seconds to store them
So, what's the best way to keep your lemons fresh in water? First, make sure to wash those lemons thoroughly before slicing them up and adding them to your water. Then, store the water in a clean container in the fridge, and try to change the water every day or two to keep things fresh. And, if you're feeling extra adventurous, you can always add other ingredients like mint or cucumber to give your water a bit of extra zing!