Watermelons, with their refreshing sweetness, are a beloved fruit worldwide. They are particularly popular during the hot summer months, providing a hydrating and delicious respite from the heat.
But have you ever cut open a watermelon and found the inside to be white instead of the expected vibrant red? This article will delve into the phenomenon of the watermelon white inside, answering all your questions and dispelling any concerns.
Watermelons, scientifically known as Citrullus lanatus, belong to the Cucurbitaceae family, which includes other fruits like cantaloupe and honeydew melon.
Originating in Africa, watermelons have been cultivated for thousands of years, with evidence of their consumption dating back to ancient Egyptian times. Today, they are grown in tropical and temperate regions worldwide, with China being the largest producer.
Watermelons are known for their thick green rinds and juicy, sweet interior, which is typically a vibrant red color.
However, watermelons come in various types and colors, including those with yellow, orange, and yes, even white flesh.
The sight of a watermelon white inside can be surprising, especially if you’re used to the traditional red-fleshed variety.
This white flesh is not an indication of a disease or a problem with the fruit. Instead, it’s a characteristic of certain types of watermelons.
White-fleshed watermelons, also known as “Cream of Saskatchewan” or “White Sugar Lump,” are heirloom varieties that are less common but just as edible and delicious as their red-fleshed counterparts.
In the following sections, we’ll explore why some watermelons have a white inside, whether it’s safe to eat, and how it compares nutritionally to red watermelons.
Understanding The White Inside Watermelon
-Why Some Watermelons Have a White Inside?
The color of a watermelon’s flesh is determined by its variety and maturity. White-fleshed watermelons are a specific variety that, as the name suggests, have white or cream-colored flesh.
These watermelons are less common than the red and pink varieties, but they are just as edible and tasty.
On the other hand, if a typically red watermelon has white or pale flesh, it may be because the fruit is underripe.
Watermelons develop their color as they ripen, starting from white or pale green and turning into a deep red or pink.
If a watermelon is cut before it has fully ripened, the inside may be white or a lighter color than expected.
-White Spots Inside Watermelon
White spots inside a watermelon are usually areas where the fruit’s flesh is denser or less ripe.
These spots are often near the rind or the fruit’s center, where the flesh takes longer to ripen.
While these spots might have a slightly different texture, they are safe to eat.
Is White Inside Watermelon Bad?
There’s a common misconception that white inside watermelon is bad or unsafe to eat. This is not true.
Whether the watermelon is naturally white-fleshed or the inside is white because the fruit is underripe, it is safe to eat.
However, an underripe watermelon may not be as sweet or flavorful as a fully ripe one.
White watermelon, like its red counterpart, is rich in vitamins and minerals. It’s a good source of Vitamin C and Vitamin A, and it’s low in calories, making it a healthy choice.
However, it doesn’t contain lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in red watermelon.
White Watermelon vs. Red Watermelon
While both white and red watermelons are nutritious and hydrating, there are some differences.
Red watermelon is sweeter and contains lycopene, an antioxidant that gives the fruit its red color.
White watermelon has a milder flavor and does not contain lycopene but is still a healthy and refreshing fruit.
Dealing With Unripe And Underripe Watermelons
-How To Identify an Underripe Watermelon?
An underripe watermelon may have a white or pale flesh, indicating that it was harvested before it had fully matured.
Other signs of an underripe watermelon include a shiny rind and a high-pitched, tinny sound when you tap it.
The ‘field spot’ – the part of the watermelon that was resting on the ground – should be a creamy yellow color.
If it’s white or green, the watermelon may be underripe.
-What to Do with an Underripe Watermelon?
If you’ve cut into a watermelon and found it to be underripe, don’t worry – it’s not a lost cause.
While an underripe watermelon may not be as sweet as a ripe one, it’s still edible and can be used in a variety of dishes.
You can juice it and use it in cocktails or smoothies, or you can slice it and use it in salads for a refreshing crunch.
You can even pickle the rind for a unique treat.
Unripe watermelons can be a great ingredient in many recipes. For instance, you can make a watermelon stir-fry.
Just cut the watermelon into cubes and stir-fry it with some vegetables and protein of your choice.
You can also make watermelon pickles, a popular dish in some cultures. The white part of the watermelon, often discarded, can be pickled and enjoyed as a crunchy, tangy snack.
Final Thoughts:
The sight of a white inside watermelon can be surprising, but it’s not a cause for concern.
Whether it’s a white-fleshed variety or an underripe fruit, it’s safe to eat and can be quite delicious.
So the next time you encounter a watermelon white inside, embrace the unexpected and enjoy the unique experience it offers.
