Select a watermelon free of damage, store it at +10…+15°C, and keep a cut fruit in the refrigerator for up to several days. Improper storage can make the berry unsafe for health.
Watermelon is a summer staple, offering a delicious and refreshing treat on hot days. However, improper storage can not only spoil its taste but also make the berry hazardous to health. UNN will provide details on how to choose a quality watermelon, where to keep it at home, and how long a cut fruit can be stored.
How to Choose a Watermelon
The duration of storage largely depends on the condition of the berry when it arrives at your home. When purchasing, pay attention to the integrity of the rind. There should be no cracks, dents, cuts, or other damages on its surface. It is also advisable to avoid buying watermelons from informal street vendors. Furthermore, the seller must possess veterinary and sanitary documents confirming the product’s safety and compliance with permissible nitrate content norms. The place of sale is equally important. Watermelons should not be placed directly on the ground or sold near busy roads and gas stations, as these berries can absorb harmful substances from their surroundings.
Where is the Best Place to Store a Whole Watermelon
For long-term storage, cool premises with moderate air humidity are best suited. A temperature range of +10 to +15 degrees Celsius is considered optimal.
If the temperature is too high, the watermelon will begin to spoil, while excessively low temperatures can negatively affect the texture of the flesh, making it watery. This is why basements, pantries, or other cool spaces are often recommended for storage. It is also better to place the watermelon horizontally on a soft surface or a wooden stand to avoid damaging the rind. If you plan to store the watermelon for an extended period, it is advisable to turn it periodically. Thus, if proper conditions are maintained, an uncut fruit can remain fresh for up to three months.
Can You Keep a Watermelon in the Refrigerator
The refrigerator remains one of the most convenient ways to store watermelon at home, especially for apartment dwellers who lack a basement or pantry.
Incidentally, a whole fruit can also be stored in the refrigerator, though the storage duration will depend on the variety and condition of the berry. However, it is most common for cut watermelons to end up in the refrigerator. If you wish to preserve the berry for a longer time, the cut surface must be protected from air contact. You can cover it with plastic wrap or place the pieces in an airtight container. It is recommended to store watermelon at a temperature between +2 and +5 degrees Celsius. Nevertheless, it is best to consume cut watermelon as soon as possible, as after the natural protective layer is damaged, the flesh becomes vulnerable to bacteria and other microorganisms.
How Long Can You Store a Cut Watermelon
After cutting, the shelf life of a watermelon significantly decreases. While a whole berry can be stored for weeks or even months, an opened fruit requires much quicker consumption. It is best to refrigerate the watermelon immediately after cutting. However, even with proper storage, keep in mind that it only remains fresh for a few days. Additionally, before consumption and cutting, the watermelon must be thoroughly washed with a brush, then rinsed with water and dried. It is also not advisable to eat the flesh near the rind of the watermelon, as this is where harmful substances can accumulate.
How to Freeze Watermelon
If preserving fresh watermelon for a long time is not feasible, freezing can be an alternative. To do this, remove the rind and seeds, and cut the flesh into small cubes. Spread the pieces on a flat surface and place them in the freezer for a few hours. After initial freezing, transfer them to an airtight container or bag. This method allows you to use watermelon for making refreshing drinks, cocktails, or desserts even long after the season has ended.
What Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common mistakes is storing watermelon near products with strong odors, as, again, the flesh readily absorbs foreign aromas, which can affect the berry’s taste. It is also undesirable to keep cut watermelon exposed to air or leave it at room temperature for extended periods, as the risk of spoilage significantly increases under such conditions. Furthermore, do not buy pre-cut watermelons or agree to the seller’s offer to cut a piece to check ripeness, because a damaged rind provides an entry point for bacteria into the fruit, thus posing a risk of poisoning.
Therefore, the best way to enjoy the taste of watermelon is to buy quality fruits and store them properly. Adhering to these simple rules will help preserve the freshness of watermelon for longer and avoid health-related issues.