How to choose a right nitrate-free watermelon

In the summer, juicy and tasty watermelon is one of the main treats for both adults and children. However, it is very important to learn how to buy safe fruit to avoid health problems. SSPDaily has collected some tips to help you choose a good watermelon and check it for nitrates without a nitrate meter.

Is it safe to buy watermelons now?

Watermelons sold before mid-August can be dangerous because they contain a large amount of nitrates. These early varieties of fruit are often grown in greenhouses, which leads to the use of fertilizers and pesticides that can contribute to the high nitrate content.

The permissible level of nitrate content is about 60 mg per 1 kg of weight. Any excess of this level will be harmful to your health. Therefore, it is recommended to be careful and refrain from consuming watermelons until the onset of their ripening season.

How to choose a ripe and safe watermelon

• Color

Look for watermelons with bright or dark green skin decorated with contrasting bright stripes. Blurry patterns may indicate a high nitrate content. Avoid watermelons with pale or yellowed skin as this is a sign of unripeness.

• Soil spot

The spot where the watermelon lies on the ground should be yellow or orange, indicating that it is ripe.

• Size

If you prefer early berries, choose smaller watermelons as larger ones may contain more nitrates and be unripe. In early August, you should buy watermelons that weigh more than 4 kg. In the fall, you can choose heavier fruits.

• Appearance

Inspect the watermelon for cracks, dents, cuts, or punctures. Damaged fruit can be dangerous to your health. Avoid watermelons that are irregularly shaped or have a bumpy surface as they may contain harmful substances. If you run your fingernail over the rind, you should leave a visible mark and a slight grassy smell.

• Tapping sound

Tap the watermelon lightly and listen for a drum-like sound. This indicates the ripeness and sweetness of the fruit. A dull sound indicates an overripe fruit, and a sonorous sound indicates an unripe fruit.

• Female trick

To choose a sweeter and tastier watermelon, turn the fruit over and pay attention to the spot opposite the tail where the flower was. A large dry spot indicates that it is a "female" berry, which is known for its excellent taste and sweetness.

How to check watermelon for nitrates without a nitrate meter

• Smooth cut

A smooth and mirror-like surface may indicate that the watermelon contains excessive chemicals. Choose a fruit with a porous cut and small pieces of flesh to ensure its quality.

• The color of the veins

Yellow or orange veins can indicate a high nitrate content, while white veins indicate a high-quality watermelon.

• Water test

Dip a piece of watermelon in water. If it immediately turns a bright color, it may have been artificially ripened and it is better to refrain from eating it. If the water becomes slightly cloudy and pink, then the watermelon is safe to eat.

When buying watermelons, always look for documented information about the country and region of origin. Avoid buying from roadside or other small markets.

In addition, do not accept offers to cut the watermelon for testing as this can lead to bacterial contamination and potential health risks.