Some lemons aren’t for vegans (Picture: Getty)

Cookbook author Jack Monroe spotted something that caused some confusion on Twitter.

Choosing a drink from Pizza Express, she noticed that a glass of Coca-Cola is only suitable for vegans if it’s served without lemon.

Posting on Twitter, Jack said: ‘Erm what do pizza express do to their LEMONS to make them not suitable for vegans?! Just noticed this and can’t for the life of me fathom wtf.’

Erm what do pizza express do to their LEMONS to make them not suitable for vegans?! Just noticed this and can't for the life of me fathom wtf pic.twitter.com/YF1LkjY80a — ☘️🇨🇾Jack Monroe (@BootstrapCook) September 18, 2019


People were quick to explain that it’s because some lemons are waxed.

Pizza Express went on to explain: ‘The wax on waxed lemons contain shellac which is derived from insects and therefore strictly not vegan.’



Coating lemons (and sometimes other citrus fruits) helps to preserve the fruit but usually, the wax is either beeswax or shellac, which is a resin made from the secretions of the female lac insect (yes, the same thing is used to make some nail polish).

Lemons are shipped in from across the world and the wax is needed to keep them fresh and protect them during transport. It also makes them look shiny.

Some lemons are coated in a polyethene wax that is suitable for vegans so it’s important to check the packaging.

Or you can avoid waxed lemons altogether and only buy unwaxed citrus fruit, but be aware they don’t stay fresh as long.

When you’re out and a slice of lemon is placed in your drink, be aware that it might not be vegan and if you’re not sure, it’s better to ask for the bartender to leave it.

For non-vegans, the wax is safe to eat but it can be removed with hot water and a soft brush when you’re using the peel if you don’t fancy adding it to your food.

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