How To Tell If A Watermelon Has Gone Bad (12 Ways to Know)

Summer is watermelon season! 

With its vibrant color and refreshing sweetness, is an all-time favorite fruit, especially on a hot summer day. However, it's crucial to know how to identify signs of spoilage to avoid consuming a rotten watermelon that can lead to food poisoning or a disappointing eating experience. 

this recipe for later

In this blog, we'll explore 12 effective ways to determine if a watermelon has gone bad. So, let's dive in and discover the best ways to spot a bad watermelon and ensure you savor the perfect fruit every time.

Jump to:

• Examine the Exterior
• Check the Watermelon Rind and Skin
• Inspect the Field Spot
• Assess the Weight
• Give It a Tap
• Sniff the Base
• Check for Signs of Mold or Moisture
• Examine the Cut Melon End
• Trust Your Sense of Smell
• Check the Texture
• Assess the Taste
• Consider the Shelf Life
• How-To Instructions
• More How To Recipes
• 💬 Reviews

Examine the Exterior

The easiest way to tell if a watermelon has gone bad is by looking outside of the whole watermelon. Look for any soft spots, noticeable dark spots, or patches of greenish-blue on the rind. These can be signs of spoilage. Choose round and symmetrical watermelons as irregular shapes may indicate internal rotting.

Check the Watermelon Rind and Skin

Inspect the watermelon's rind and skin for any soggy spots, discoloration, or wrinkled appearance. A fresh watermelon should have a smooth and firm rind. Also, watermelons should be either solid-colored with a consistent shade of pine green or striped with alternating lime green and darker pine-colored stripes.

Inspect the Field Spot

Look at the underside of the watermelon, also known as the field spot. A ripe watermelon should have a creamy yellow or orange field spot. A green or white field spot may indicate an unripe watermelon.

Assess the Weight

Lift the watermelon and feel its weight. A ripe watermelon should feel heavy for its size due to its high water content. If it feels excessively light, it may have lost moisture and freshness.

Give It a Tap

Gently tap the watermelon with your palm. A ripe watermelon will produce a hollow sound, indicating that the flesh is firm and juicy. It may be overripe or spoiled if it sounds dull or mushy. 

Sniff the Base

Bring the watermelon close to your nose and smell the base where it was attached to the vine. A fresh watermelon should have a sweet smell. If it has an off or sour smell, it may be a sign of spoilage.

Check for Signs of Mold or Moisture

Inspect the watermelon for any signs of mold growth, especially around the stem area. Mold can appear as white, green, or black spots. Additionally, look for excessive moisture or juice oozing from the watermelon, which can indicate spoilage.

Examine the Cut Melon End

If the watermelon is already cut or you're dealing with pre-cut watermelon packages, examine the cut end. The flesh should have a vibrant red or deep pink color. Any black or brown spots, sliminess, or sour odor indicates spoilage.

Trust Your Sense of Smell

Take a whiff of the watermelon flesh. A fresh watermelon should have a sweet smell. If it smells off, fermented, or has a sour odor, it's best to avoid consuming it.

Check the Texture

Gently press your finger against the watermelon flesh. It should feel firm but slightly yielding. If it feels excessively mushy or has a mealy texture, it may be spoiled.

Assess the Taste

If you're unsure, cut a small piece and taste it if possible. A good watermelon should have a sweet taste. If it tastes sour, has a strange aftertaste, or lacks sweetness, it's likely gone bad.

Consider the Shelf Life

Keep in mind that an uncut watermelon can typically last 7-10 days at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Once cut, store the remaining watermelon in an airtight container, preferably sealed with plastic wrap or stored in resealable bags, in the refrigerator. However, it's best to consume it within a few days to enjoy its optimal flavor and quality.

Determining whether a watermelon has gone bad can avoid unpleasant surprises and potential food poisoning. By following these steps, you can confidently select a fresh and delicious watermelon as you buy at the grocery store or your local farmer’s market.

Want to know how you can tell if a squash has gone bad? You can read about it on my blog too! 🙂

How-To Instructions