Juicy, acidic and flavorful, lemon is the most widely used citrus fruit worldwide. The juice, rind, and zest are all used in a wide variety of food and drinks. From simple garnish to desserts and additions to many dishes, the lemon is one of the most versatile fruits. Lemon juice can used as a short-term preservative on certain foods that tend to oxidize and turn brown after being sliced, such as apples, bananas and avocados, where its acid prevents discolouration. Lemon zest, the grated outer rind of the fruit, is used to add flavour to baked goods, puddings, rice and other dishes. Enthusiastic cooks are seldom without them.