5. Shriveled or Wrinkled Rind
– Appearance: Outer rind appears dry, wrinkled, or excessively soft.
– Risk: Dehydration or over-ripeness can harbor bacteria.
– Action: Check the flesh inside; if it looks and smells fine, it’s still edible.
6. Excessive Liquid or Leaking Juice
– Appearance: Watermelon is leaking juice or feels overly watery.
– Risk: Excessive liquid can indicate internal breakdown and bacterial growth.
– Action: Discard if texture seems off or juice has an unusual smell.
7. White or Black Spots Inside the Flesh
– Appearance: Unusual white or black spots on the red flesh.
– Risk: Fungal infections or contamination can make the fruit unsafe.
– Action: Discard the watermelon.
How to Store Watermelon Properly
– Whole Watermelon: Store at room temperature for up to 10 days or in the fridge for up to 2-3 weeks.
– Cut Watermelon: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the fridge; use within 3-5 days.
– Freezing: Cut watermelon into cubes and freeze for smoothies or desserts; lasts up to 6 months.
Final Thoughts
When in doubt, it’s better to err on the side of caution and discard the watermelon to avoid potential health risks.
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