Tips

Identifying the Differences: Vietnamese vs. Chinese Watermelons

Watermelons are a beloved fruit, relished for their refreshing taste and health benefits. However, distinguishing between low-quality Chinese watermelons and their fresher counterparts remains a pressing concern for consumers. Join us as we unravel the secrets to identifying the best watermelons and ensuring a delightful, healthy experience every time!

Administrator

20 July, 2024

Why Distinguishing Between Vietnamese and Chinese Watermelons is Important

Watermelons are an incredibly heart-healthy, bone-strengthening, and vision-boosting fruit that also improves the immune system. They are delicious, sweet, and refreshing, making them a popular choice, especially during the hot summer months.

However, as you may know, there is an influx of low-quality, cheap imports from China flooding the market. These watermelons are often injected with chemicals to keep them fresh and sweet, which can have detrimental effects on consumers’ health. It is crucial to be vigilant when purchasing watermelons and other produce for your family.

Differences Between Vietnamese and Chinese Watermelons

Vietnamese Watermelons	Chinese Watermelons
Shape	Long and round-headed.	Large and oval-shaped.
Skin Characteristics	Tight, shiny, and smooth to the touch.	Smooth and glossy.
Color	Dark green with distinct veins. The underside, where it touches the ground, is yellow.	Usually yellow with faint veins on the skin.
Flesh Characteristics	The flesh is usually smaller and drier.	Slightly softer flesh.
Sweetness	Depends on the weather.	Often very sweet due to injected chemical sweeteners.
Characteristics of the Watermelon’s Interior	After cutting, the watermelon retains its bright red color and juiciness.	The flesh becomes mushy a few hours after cutting.
Weight	Weight corresponds proportionally to its size.	Very heavy.
Price	Usually more expensive than Chinese watermelons.	Cheaper than Vietnamese watermelons.

Tips for Buying Watermelons

To choose a juicy and tasty watermelon, tap the fruit lightly with your hand. If it emits a deep, dull sound, it’s a good sign that the watermelon is ripe and not spongy. Alternatively, press your finger against the shell; if it feels firm and solid, it’s a good watermelon. Another identifying feature is the size of the stem; the smaller, the better. If the stem is deeply indented, the watermelon is likely to be very sweet.

Avoid buying watermelons with wilted but not shriveled stems as these are unripe fruits that have been picked too early. They won’t be as sweet as fully mature watermelons. Also, refrain from buying watermelons with dark spots or bruises, as these indicate decay.

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Reference: http://kienthuc.net.vn

The above guide provides simple ways to differentiate between Vietnamese and Chinese watermelons. We hope it helps you choose sweet and chemical-free watermelons. Don’t forget to check out our other guides as well!