Watermelon is one of the most refreshing fruits, especially during hot days. But nothing is worse than biting into a watermelon only to find it’s gone bad. So, how can you tell if watermelon is bad? Let’s dive into some easy and practical tips to help you enjoy your watermelon at its best!
Signs to Look for When Checking If Watermelon Is Bad
1. Appearance of the Rind and Flesh
– Rind color and texture: A fresh watermelon typically has a vibrant green rind with a creamy yellow spot where it rested on the ground. If the rind looks dull, has dark or moldy spots, or is excessively soft or shriveled, it might be a sign the watermelon is past its prime.
– Flesh color: When you cut open the watermelon, the flesh should be bright red or pink and juicy. If the flesh looks pale, grayish, or has dark spots, it’s likely spoiled.
– Mold presence: Any signs of mold on the rind or inside the flesh mean the watermelon is bad and should be discarded immediately.
2. Smell
A fresh watermelon has a mild, sweet aroma. If you notice a sour or fermented smell, it’s a clear indication the watermelon has gone bad.
3. Texture and Firmness
– Before cutting: When you press the watermelon rind gently, it should feel firm and slightly springy. If it feels mushy or soft in spots, the fruit may be spoiled.
– After cutting: The flesh should be crisp and juicy, not slimy or mushy.
4. Taste
If everything looks and smells fine but the watermelon tastes off-sour, bitter, or fermented-it’s best not to eat it.
How to Check Watermelon Ripeness (So You Avoid Buying Bad Ones!)
Knowing how to pick a ripe watermelon can help you avoid buying one that goes bad quickly.
– Thump test: Tap the watermelon with your hand. A ripe watermelon produces a deep, hollow sound, indicating it’s full of water and juicy. A dull or high-pitched sound suggests it’s either overripe or underripe.
– Field spot: Look for a creamy yellow patch on the watermelon’s underside. This spot shows where the watermelon rested on the ground and indicates ripeness. A white or greenish spot means it’s likely underripe.
– Weight: Pick up the watermelon and compare it to others of the same size. The heavier one usually has more water content and is juicier.
– Stem condition: A dry, shriveled stem means the watermelon was naturally ripened and fell off the vine. A green or torn stem suggests it was picked too early.
How to Store Watermelon to Keep It Fresh Longer
– Whole watermelon: Store it at room temperature away from direct sunlight. It can last about 7 to 10 days.
– Cut watermelon: Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 3 to 5 days.
What Happens When Watermelon Goes Bad?
When watermelon spoils, bacteria and mold start to grow, breaking down the fruit’s texture and flavor. Eating spoiled watermelon can cause stomach upset or food poisoning, so it’s crucial to recognize the signs and avoid consuming bad fruit.
Enjoy your watermelon fresh and juicy by knowing how to spot if it’s bad. Remember, trust your senses-look, smell, feel, and taste-to make sure your watermelon is perfect every time.