The watermelons are infused with artificial colours and sold in the open market where the consumers fail to identify the artificially coloured rotten watermelons.
STC HEALTH DESK
With the onset of summer, demand for fruits like watermelon increases. It’s a scenario where growers, dealers and vast network of fruit traders make hay while the Sun shines. The spike in demand of watermelon in summers also increases the risk of adulteration.
This How useful are watermelons for the human body?
Watermelon is packed with hydrating water content (over 90%), which helps keep the body cool and refreshed during summer months. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, and B6, which support skin health, immunity, and energy levels. Watermelon contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant known to reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease and certain cancers. It also contains potassium and magnesium content that helps maintain healthy blood pressure, while the amino acid citrulline supports better blood flow and muscle recovery.
Meanwhile, in view of the adulteration risks in watermelons, the Food Safety Department has urged the public to exercise caution while buying watermelons, to rule out presence of chemicals. The watermelons are infused with artificial colours and sold in the open market where the consumers fail to identify the artificially coloured rotten watermelons. Keeping the same in view, the food safety authorities have listed some useful tips for the consumers to buy the right watermelons this season.
CHECK SHAPE
To check the authenticity of watermelon, have a look at its shape. Always opt for one that has a uniform shape and symmetrical appearance. Irregularities in shape or size may indicate uneven ripening or improper growing conditions, which can affect the taste and texture of the fruit.
DON’T IGNORE COLOUR & TEXTURE
Inspect the outer rind of watermelon. A ripe watermelon typically has a deep green colour with darker stripes or spots. Avoid watermelons that appear pale or have soft spots, as these may indicate overripeness or spoilage.
USE COTTON BALLS
As per the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), one can cut the watermelon into two parts, take a cotton ball and rub on the watermelon for some time. If the red colour of the watermelon is real, then the cotton ball will not turn red, this shows that the watermelon is real, its colour has not been tampered with. It has also cone to the notice that some sellers also inject the watermelon to make it appear red, so when rubbed with cotton, its colour will turn red. The cotton turning red indicates that injections or chemicals have been used in the watermelon, which is not good for our health.
USE THUMPING TECHNIQUE
Lightly tap the watermelon with your knuckles and listen for a deep, hollow sound. A ripe watermelon will produce a resonant, drum-like sound, indicating that it is full of juice and ready to be enjoyed.
CHECK THE WEIGHT
A ripe watermelon should feel heavy for its size, as this indicates a high water content and juiciness. Lift the watermelon and compare its weight to other melons of similar size. Heavier watermelons are typically juicier and more flavourful.
LOOK FOR SUGAR SPOTS
Sugar spots, also known as ‘sugar webbing’ or ‘sugar veins’, are tiny brown freckles or streaks that appear on the surface of the watermelon. These spots indicate that the fruit has a high sugar content and is likely to be sweet and flavourful. Look for watermelons with prominent sugar spots for the best taste experience.
HAVE A LOOK AT THE BOTTOM
It is advised that one should also inspect the underside of the watermelon, known as the ‘belly’, where it rested on the ground during growth. Look for a creamy yellow spot, often referred to as the ‘field spot’. A fully ripened watermelon will have a creamy or golden-yellow field spot, indicating that it has been allowed to ripen fully on the vine.
USE GLASS TUMBLER
It is also advisable for the consumers to determine the quality by putting chopped pieces of melons inside a glass tumbler. The artificial colours get separated when in water.
CHECK APPEARANCE
At times, watermelons are generally stocked in the open on the floor of godowns, and are exposed to rats that nibble on them. It is suggested to keep an eye on the external marks on the watermelons so as to avoid risk of infections.
(STC)