Watermelon is the quintessential summer fruit-juicy, sweet, and refreshing. But nothing ruins a sunny day faster than biting into a watermelon that’s gone bad. So, how can you tell when a watermelon is bad before you take that first juicy bite? Let’s dive into the simple, foolproof ways to spot a spoiled watermelon and keep your snack time delicious and safe.
1. Check the Watermelon’s Exterior
Start with the outside. A fresh watermelon should have a firm, smooth rind with a vibrant, deep green color. If you notice any dark, mushy spots or patches that look moldy-greenish-blue, white, or black-these are clear signs the watermelon is spoiled and should be tossed.
Also, avoid watermelons with cracks, leaks, or an irregular shape. A lopsided watermelon might indicate internal rot, and cracks can let bacteria in, speeding up spoilage.
2. Feel the Texture
Give the watermelon a gentle squeeze. It should feel firm and dense. If it feels soft, mushy, or spongy in any area, that’s a strong indicator the fruit inside is starting to rot. A slimy texture inside the flesh is also a no-go.
3. Look for Color Changes Inside
When you cut into the watermelon, the flesh should be bright red or pink, juicy, and consistent in color. If the flesh looks dull, watery, or has white streaks, it might be overripe or spoiled. Dark or discolored patches inside are a definite sign of bad watermelon.
4. Smell the Watermelon
Fresh watermelon has a sweet, pleasant aroma. If you detect a sour, fermented, or off-putting smell, it’s a red flag that the watermelon has gone bad and could cause stomach upset if eaten.
5. Taste Test (Only If It Looks and Smells Okay)
If everything else checks out but you’re still unsure, take a small bite. A bad watermelon will taste sour, bitter, or have a strange aftertaste instead of the expected sweet, refreshing flavor. If it tastes off, spit it out and discard the rest.
6. Listen for the Tap Test
Before cutting, some people tap the watermelon and listen for a hollow sound, which usually indicates ripeness. While this doesn’t tell you if it’s bad, a dull or flat sound might mean the watermelon is overripe or spoiled inside.
7. Consider How Long It’s Been Stored
Watermelon doesn’t last forever. Whole watermelons can last about 1-2 weeks at room temperature, but once cut, they should be refrigerated and eaten within 3-5 days. If your watermelon has been sitting out too long or in warm conditions, it’s more likely to spoil quickly.
8. Watch for Mold or Moisture on Cut Surfaces
If you see mold growing on the cut edges or notice excessive moisture or leaking juice, it’s best to throw the watermelon away. Mold can spread quickly and isn’t safe to eat.
Watermelon is a summer staple, but knowing how to spot a bad one keeps your snack safe and tasty. Look for firm skin without dark spots or mold, a sweet smell, and bright, juicy flesh. When in doubt, trust your senses-if it looks, smells, or tastes off, it’s better to discard it.
Enjoy your watermelon fresh and delicious every time!