Yuzu — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips

Yuzu photo

Listonic Team

March 10, 2025

Yuzu, a vibrant citrus fruit from East Asia, is prized for its unique flavor and rich nutritional profile, boasting high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C. Discover tips for selecting the freshest yuzu and effective storage methods to preserve its aromatic qualities and health benefits.

Nutrients

Check the detailed nutritional values of yuzu, including information such as calories, fats, carbohydrates, and proteins per 100 grams of the product.

Nutrition facts

Amount per 100 g

Calories

🔥 20 kcal

Nutrients per: 100 g% Daily Value*
Carbs9 g3.27%
Fiber2 g7.14%
Sugars2 g4%
Glycemic Index35 -
Protein2 g4%
Sodium0 mg-
Total Fat0 -

*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Key takeaways

🛒
Choose yuzu that is firm to the touch, with a vibrant yellow or green color, and avoid any that have soft spots or blemishes.
😋
Yuzu, a citrus fruit native to East Asia, is prized not only for its fragrant zest and tart juice but also for its unique ability to enhance umami flavors, making it a favorite ingredient in both traditional Japanese cuisine and modern culinary creations.
📦
To maintain yuzu's vibrant flavor and aroma, store it in the refrigerator's crisper drawer, wrapped in a damp paper towel and placed in a plastic bag. For longer storage, you can freeze the zest or juice in ice cube trays.
📌
Yuzu is so aromatic that its zest is often used in perfumes and cosmetics.

Health benefits

Discover the health benefits of yuzu, a citrus fruit rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which can enhance your immune system and promote overall wellness.
  • High in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and promotes healthy skin.
  • May improve mood by reducing stress and anxiety levels due to its uplifting aroma.
  • Supports heart health by helping to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood circulation.
  • Rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Health risks

Understand the potential health risks associated with yuzu.
  • Allergic reactions may occur in some individuals, leading to symptoms such as skin rashes, itching, or gastrointestinal discomfort.
  • Potential for drug interactions as yuzu can affect the metabolism of certain medications, leading to increased side effects or reduced effectiveness.
  • High acidity in yuzu may cause digestive issues for some people, including heartburn or acid reflux, especially when consumed in large quantities.
  • Risk of pesticide exposure if not properly washed or if consumed in non-organic forms, which can lead to various health concerns over time.
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How to choose yuzu

When choosing yuzu, look for fruits that are firm and heavy for their size, indicating juiciness and freshness. The skin should be bright and vibrant, free from blemishes or soft spots, as these can indicate overripeness or spoilage.

Avoid yuzu that appears dull or has wrinkled skin, as this may suggest that the fruit is past its prime. Additionally, yuzu with an overly dry or shriveled appearance should be avoided, as it may lack the zesty flavor and aromatic qualities that make this citrus fruit so desirable.

How to store yuzu

To store yuzu properly and maintain its vibrant flavor, keep it in a cool, dry place, ideally in the refrigerator. Refrigeration is highly recommended for extending its shelf life, as yuzu can spoil quickly at room temperature. Aim to store yuzu in a breathable produce bag or a container that allows for air circulation to prevent moisture buildup.

Additionally, avoid exposing yuzu to direct sunlight, as this can lead to rapid deterioration of its quality. If you have cut yuzu, wrap the pieces tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness. Remember to consume yuzu within a week for the best flavor and aroma.

✅ Extra Tip

To maximize the flavor of yuzu, store it in the refrigerator and use it fresh in dressings or marinades, as its aromatic zest and juice lose potency over time.

How long does it last?

Yuzu, a fragrant citrus fruit, has a relatively short shelf life compared to other citrus varieties. When stored at room temperature, yuzu can last for about 1 week before starting to lose its flavor and freshness. If kept in the refrigerator, yuzu can remain fresh for up to 2-3 weeks. For longer storage, yuzu can be frozen, which allows it to maintain its quality for up to 6 months. To preserve its unique aroma and taste, it's essential to store yuzu in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Proper handling and storage will help ensure that you enjoy the vibrant flavor of yuzu for as long as possible.

What to do with leftovers?

Leftover yuzu can elevate a variety of dishes with its unique citrus flavor. Use it to make a zesty vinaigrette for salads or drizzle it over grilled vegetables for an added punch. Yuzu juice can also be incorporated into marinades for fish or chicken, enhancing the overall taste with its bright acidity. If you have yuzu zest, sprinkle it over desserts like cakes or ice creams to provide a refreshing citrus note.

For a creative twist, mix yuzu juice into cocktails or sparkling water for a refreshing beverage. You can also use it in homemade sauces, such as a yuzu-infused ponzu, which pairs beautifully with sushi or sashimi. If you find yourself with an abundance of yuzu, consider making yuzu marmalade or curd to enjoy later on toast or as a filling for pastries. Yuzu can also be frozen in ice cube trays, allowing you to easily add its vibrant flavor to future dishes and drinks.

👨‍⚕️️ Medical disclaimer

The content on this website is for informational purposes only. No material on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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