A review of limonin in grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) juice,its relationship to flavour,and efforts to reduce it

Ever since limonin was first discovered in grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf) juice in 1965 and found responsible for significantly contributing to bitterness in the juice, a great deal of research has been directed towards understanding its role therein. Information is presented relative to limonin's chemical determination, taste threshold and content in grapefruit juice, and to relevant legislation. Also considered are (1) several factors affecting the limonin content of grapefruit juice (2) the effect of limonin content on sensory flavour in grapefruit juice (3) the interaction between the Brix: acid ratio and limonin content in affecting grapefruit juice flavour and (4) methods for reducing limonin in citrus juices generally. Finally, recommendations for future studies on limonin in grapefruit juice are reviewed.