As summer approaches and watermelons come into season, indulging in a sweet, juicy summer watermelon is a quintessential pleasure.
Its fresh flavour, delightful texture, and vibrant colour the perfect summer treat, so it is important to know how to keep its freshness.
Experts at watermelon.org provide insights into the optimal storage conditions and shelf life of both whole and cut watermelons to ensure maximum freshness.
The ideal storage temperature for watermelons ranges between 50 to 59°F (10 to 15°C), with 55°F (13°C) considered optimal.
It’s crucial to maintain this temperature range to preserve the fruit’s flavour and texture.
As part of Cutting & Yield Research, the National Watermelon Promotion Board (NWPB) conducted studies to assess the shelf life of cut watermelons.
Results showed that a 36-count watermelon remained edible for up to seven days, with a corresponding shelf life of seven days.
However, the 45- and 60-count watermelon samples exhibited a shorter shelf life, remaining edible for four days.
Researchers from the Food Innovation Center at Oregon State University suggested further shelf life research, noting that discrepancies in shelf life could be attributed to differences in initial storage conditions.
Additionally, they emphasized the importance of food service education regarding proper washing of watermelons before cutting to prevent contamination.
