How to Tell If Watermelon Has Gone Bad (12 Ways to Know)
Instructions
- Examine the Exterior: Choose round and symmetrical watermelons as irregular shapes may indicate internal rotting.
- Check Watermelon Rind and Skin: Any soggy spots, discoloration, or wrinkled appearance indicate a watermelon is past its prime.
- Inspect The Field Spot: A green or white field spot may indicate an unripe watermelon.
- Assess The Weight: If it feels excessively light, it may have lost moisture and freshness.
- Give It A Tap: It may be overripe or spoiled if it sounds dull or mushy.
- Sniff the Base: If it has an off or sour smell, it may be a sign of spoilage.
- Check for Mold or Moisture: Mold can appear as white, green, or black spots. Excessive moisture or juice oozing from the watermelon can indicate spoilage.
- Examine the Cut End: Any black or brown spots, sliminess, or sour odor indicates spoilage.
- Trust Your Sense of Smell: If it smells off, fermented, or has a sour odor, it's best to avoid consuming it.
- Check the Texture: If it feels excessively mushy or has a mealy texture, it may be spoiled.
- Assess the Taste: If it tastes sour, has a strange aftertaste, or lacks sweetness, it's likely gone bad.
- Consider The Shelf Life: It's best to consume watermelon within a few days to enjoy its optimal flavor and quality.