Watermelons with Yellow Rind Tend to Have High Nitrate Content
According to experienced watermelon farmers, a bountiful harvest of ripe, juicy watermelons often involves the use of growth hormones. While moderate use may not be harmful, excessive nitrates can pose a health risk. Therefore, when buying watermelons, it’s crucial to inspect the color of the rind. If you notice a yellow tint instead of the typical white, it indicates high nitrate levels, and it’s best to avoid purchasing such watermelons to prevent any health hazards.
Tips for Choosing Delicious and Safe Watermelons
Inspect the Watermelon for Holes
Ideally, choose watermelons that are intact and free from any marks, such as bee stings or injection marks. While holes in the watermelon’s rind could be due to insect activity, they might also indicate nitrate injection. To ensure your safety, it’s best to refrain from purchasing watermelons with holes on the rind.
Avoid Watermelons with Large Hollow Centers
To select sweet and healthy watermelons that haven’t been treated with growth hormones, opt for moderately sized fruits. Additionally, choose watermelons with smaller navels, as larger navels often indicate the use of growth stimulants. Consuming these watermelons may result in a bitter taste and potential health risks. If you notice such characteristics upon cutting the watermelon, it’s best to discard it.
Examine the Navel of the Watermelon for a Tasty Pick
Submerge a Watermelon Piece in Water
According to scientific experts, you can test for nitrates by placing a piece of watermelon in a glass of room-temperature water. If the water turns bright pink, it’s an indication of high nitrate levels, and it’s best to discard the watermelon to prevent potential health issues.
Source: Khoevadep
