This simple watermelon mistake could lead to serious food poisoning
Why you should wash watermelon before cutting it (Photo: Magnific)
The most common mistake people make when eating watermelon is failing to wash it before cutting. Bacteria and dirt from the rind can easily get onto the flesh through a knife, potentially leading to food poisoning, according to Verywell Health.
Why you should wash watermelon
When you cut a watermelon, the knife can transfer bacteria from the rind to the fruit. If the rind contains bacteria such as salmonella or E. coli, they can get into the flesh.
These bacteria can then multiply, especially if the fruit is stored improperly.
Watermelons can pick up bacteria in many places — from the field where they grow to shopping carts and kitchen countertops. Since they grow on the ground, they are more likely to come into contact with dirt.
How to wash a watermelon properly
Preparation. Before handling a watermelon, wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds. Pay special attention to the areas between your fingers and under your nails.
Prepare a clean cutting board, a sharp knife, and paper or clean cloth towels.
If the board or knife was previously used for raw meat, fish, or poultry, wash them thoroughly with hot water and detergent, then dry them. This helps prevent cross-contamination.
Washing the watermelon. Place the whole watermelon under cool running water. Slowly rotate it with your hands so that the water reaches the entire surface.
If there is dirt or dust on the rind, gently scrub it with a clean fruit and vegetable brush. The brush should only be used for washing produce, not for other household tasks.
Rinse the watermelon again under running water, then dry it with a clean paper towel or a clean dry cloth.
Cutting the watermelon. First, use a sharp knife to cut off about 1–2 centimeters from both ends. This creates flat surfaces that make the watermelon more stable.
Then place it vertically or horizontally and cut it in half.
Like many fresh foods, watermelon can become unsafe if it sits at room temperature for too long. Cut watermelon stays fresh in the refrigerator for approximately three to five days.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
