How To Tell If A Watermelon Is Bad? Complete Guide

Watermelon is a sweet and refreshing fruit enjoyed by many during the summer months. While watermelon is generally a healthy choice, there are occasions when it may be necessary to determine whether or not a watermelon is bad. In this article, we will discuss how to tell if a watermelon is bad, as well as steps for preventing watermelon spoilage.

Watermelons are available year-round, but they are most commonly found in grocery stores during the summer months. Watermelon is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, which also includes cucumbers and melons. 

There are many different varieties of watermelon, but they typically fall into two categories: seeded and seedless. Watermelons range in size from a few pounds to over 100 pounds. 

Does Watermelon go bad?

Watermelon can go bad, but it is not a fruit that spoils quickly. If stored properly, a watermelon can last for several weeks. It is important to note, however, that the quality of the fruit will decline over time. 

Watermelons are a source of many important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, B6, and C, as well as potassium and lycopene. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to a number of health benefits, such as a reduced risk of heart disease and cancer. 

When purchasing a watermelon, it is important to select one that is heavy for its size and has a dull appearance. The watermelon should also have a uniform shape and be free of blemishes or bruises. 

Once you have selected a watermelon, You can store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator. If you plan to store the watermelon for an extended period of time, it is best to keep it in the fridge.

 

How to tell if a watermelon is bad?

While watermelons can last for several weeks, it is important to note that the quality of the fruit will decline over time. For this reason, it is essential to know how to tell if a watermelon is bad. Here are  a few signs to look for:

The watermelon is soft or mushy: A watermelon that is starting to go bad will often be soft or mushy. This is due to the breakdown of the fruit’s cell structure. And while a little bit of softness is not necessarily a bad thing, you should avoid watermelons that are significantly soft or mushy.

The watermelon has white spots: Another sign that watermelon is starting to go bad is the presence of white spots on the surface of the fruit. These spots are called “sugar spots” and they are caused by the breakdown of the fruit’s sugar content. 

The watermelon has brown spots: Brown spots on the watermelon are another sign that the fruit is starting to spoil. These spots are usually the result of bruising or damage to the surface of the watermelon. 

The watermelon smells bad: As watermelons start to spoil, they will often develop an off-putting smell. If a watermelon smells bad, it is best to avoid eating it. When in doubt, it is always best to err on the side of caution and throw the watermelon away. 

The watermelon tastes bad: One of the easiest ways to tell if a watermelon is bad is to taste it simply. If the watermelon tastes sour or fermented, it is likely spoiled and should be discarded. You should also avoid watermelons that taste bland or flavorless, as this is another sign of spoilage.

 

Preventing Watermelon spoilage:

There are a few simple steps you can take to prevent your watermelon from spoiling too quickly. Here are a few tips:

Store the watermelon in the fridge:  If you plan to store your watermelon for an extended period of time, it is best to keep it in the fridge. The cold temperature will help to slow down the process of spoilage.

Store the watermelon in a cool, dry place:  Watermelons should be stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or humid environments, as this can cause the fruit to spoil more quickly.

Don’t cut the watermelon until you’re ready to eat it:  Once you have cut into a watermelon, it will start to deteriorate. For this reason, it is best to wait to cut the watermelon until you are ready to eat it. If you need to cut the watermelon in advance, be sure to store it in the fridge.

Check the watermelon for signs of spoilage before eating it:  Before you eat a watermelon, be sure to check it for signs of spoilage. If you notice any of the signs listed above, it is best to discard the fruit.

Throw away any bruised or moldy slices: If you notice that any slices of watermelon are bruised or moldy, be sure to discard them. These pieces of fruit can cause food poisoning if consumed. 

By following these simple tips, you can help to ensure that your watermelon stays fresh for as long as possible.

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the best way to tell if a watermelon is bad?

The best way to tell if the watermelon is bad is to smell it. If the watermelon smells sour or off, it is probably bad. You can also tell if the watermelon is bad if it has brown or black spots on the flesh. 

Q: Is it okay to eat watermelon with a few brown spots?

A: Yes, it is perfectly fine to eat watermelons with a few brown spots. The brown spots are caused by the sugar in the watermelon oxidizing, and they do not affect the taste or safety of the fruit. 

Q: Can you get sick from eating bad watermelon?

A: Yes, you can get food poisoning from eating bad watermelon. Symptoms of watermelon food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience these symptoms after eating watermelon, seek medical attention immediately. 

 

Conclusion:

Now that you know how to tell if a watermelon is bad, you can enjoy this delicious summer fruit without worry.

If you are unsure about the safety of watermelon, it is always best to err on the side of caution and throw it out. Eating bad watermelon can cause food poisoning, which can be very serious. If you think you may have consumed bad watermelon, seek medical attention immediately. 

Read More:

When Is Watermelon Season?

How Long Does Watermelon Last?