How Long Does Watermelon Last?

Watermelon is a fruit that is frequently eaten during the summer months. This juicy fruit is 92% water and is a good source of vitamins A and C. While most people think of watermelon as a refreshing snack, it can also be used in recipes. So, how long does watermelon last?

The shelf life of different fruits and vegetables can vary depending on the type of product and how it is stored. Watermelon is a perishable fruit and its shelf life depends on a number of factors.

Factors That Affect The Shelf Life Of Watermelon:

Some of the factors that affect the shelf life of watermelon include:

The variety of watermelon:

There are many different varieties of watermelon. Some watermelons are sweeter than others and some have tougher skin. The sweetness and texture of the fruit will affect how long it lasts. Some common types of watermelon include Jubilee, Crimson Sweet, and Sugar Baby.

Jubilee watermelon is a hybrid variety that was first introduced in 1963. Jubilee has a deep red color and is very sweet. It takes 90 days to mature and get to its full size. This watermelon will last for about two weeks if it is stored at room temperature.

Crimson Sweet is a popular variety of watermelon that was also introduced in 1963. This variety is a deep red color and it is also very sweet. It takes about 80 days to mature. Crimson Sweet watermelon will last for about one week if it is stored at room temperature.

Sugar Baby is a small watermelon that is very sweet. It was introduced in 1956 and takes about 75 days to mature. Sugar Baby watermelon will last for about two weeks if it is stored at room temperature.

The ripeness of the watermelon:

When a watermelon is ripe, it will be a bright red color and it will have a sweet flavor. An unripe watermelon will be green in color and it will not be as sweet. The ripeness of the watermelon will affect how long it lasts. It is best to eat a ripe watermelon within three days of purchase, while an unripe watermelon will last for about two weeks.

How the watermelon is stored?

 If a watermelon is stored incorrectly, it will not last as long. Watermelons should be stored in a cool, dry place. If the watermelon is stored in a refrigerator, it will last for about two weeks. The refrigerators should not be set below 38 degrees Fahrenheit or the watermelon will freeze.

If the watermelon is stored at room temperature, it will last for about seven to nine days. Room temperatures should not exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Sometimes watermelons are stored in a grocery store at room temperature. You also don’t know how long the watermelon has been sitting at the store. So, it is best to buy a watermelon that is stored in the refrigerator.

The size of the watermelon:

The size of the watermelon also affects how long it will last. The larger the watermelon, the longer it will last. A small watermelon that is about 8 to 12 inches in diameter will last for about two weeks if it is stored at room temperature. A large watermelon that is about 18 to 24 inches in diameter will last for about two months if it is stored at room temperature.

The way the watermelon is cut:

If the watermelon is cut into small pieces, it will spoil faster than if it is left whole. When a watermelon is cut, the exposed flesh will start to spoil. So, if a watermelon is going to be eaten within a day or two, it should be cut into small pieces. If the watermelon is going to be eaten in a week or more, it should be left whole.

The cut watermelon will last for about four days if it is stored in the refrigerator. But, if you want to store the watermelon for a longer period of time, you can freeze it. Frozen watermelon will last for more than a month as long as it is stored in the freezer.

How to Store a Watermelon?

If you have a watermelon, you need to know how to store it correctly so that it will last for a while. Storing a watermelon incorrectly can cause it to spoil faster, so it is important to know how to do it properly.  

The first thing you need to do is find a spot in your fridge where the watermelon will fit. It is best to store it on a shelf where you can still see it so that you remember to eat it! If you can’t find a spot in your fridge for it, you can also store it on your countertop. 

Once you have found a spot for it, cut the watermelon in half and take out the seeds. You can either discard them or save them to plant later. Then, wrap the watermelon in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge.

If you are storing a watermelon on your countertop, you don’t need to do anything else except make sure it is in a cool, dry place. Remember,  however, that it will only last for about two weeks this way.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can old watermelon make you sick?

Yes,  old watermelon can make you sick. Spoiled watermelon will likely contain bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Signs of food poisoning may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea

Can you freeze watermelon?

Yes, you can freeze watermelon. Frozen watermelon will have a slightly different texture than fresh watermelon, but it is still a healthy and delicious snack.

Is there any nutritional value in watermelon?

Yes, watermelon is a nutrient-rich fruit. It is a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium. It also contains antioxidants that can benefit your health.

Can watermelon go bad uncut?

Yes, watermelon can go bad uncut. Uncut watermelon will spoil more quickly than cut watermelon because it is exposed to the air. Cut watermelon should be stored in the fridge and consumed within a few days.

Conclusion:

Watermelon is a delicious fruit that is enjoyed by people all over the world. While it is usually consumed fresh, it can also be stored in the fridge for a few days. If you want to store watermelon for longer than a week or two, you can freeze it. However, freezing will affect the taste and texture of the fruit. 

In general, watermelon will last for about two to three weeks in the fridge and up to six months in the freezer.