A "Common Mistake" That Can Cause Food Poisoning When Eating Watermelon🍉

With the arrival of summer, demand for various types of watermelon increases due to their nutritional benefits and ability to refresh the body during hot weather. However, a simple and common mistake can cause food poisoning.

According to a report published by the "Verywell Health" website, cutting a watermelon without washing its outer rind poses a health risk, as the knife can transfer bacteria from the outer surface to the inside of the fruit during cutting.

The report stated that bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli grow on the outer rind and can infiltrate the watermelon pulp and multiply inside, especially if the fruit is left uncut for a long time without proper storage.

There are many sources of watermelon rind contamination. Germs can stick to it from the field, during transportation, in stores, or even in the kitchen.

Watermelons can also be contaminated with dirt, unclean water, or animal waste, given that they grow on the ground.

For this reason, experts recommend washing watermelons thoroughly before cutting them and following simple steps to avoid the risk of poisoning.

How to Cut Watermelon Safely:

Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the fruit.

Rinse the watermelon under running water and scrub the rind by hand or with a brush designed for fruits and vegetables. Dry the outer surface with a clean towel or paper towel to reduce moisture. Use a clean, sterilized knife and cutting board.

The correct way to store watermelon:

After cutting, it is recommended to place the watermelon pieces in the refrigerator as soon as possible. It is preferable to store them in an airtight container or in a sealed plastic bag.

The refrigerator temperature should be set at 4°C or cooler to reduce bacterial growth and maintain the freshness of the fruit.

Source News: Skynews - Published on 30-6-2025