If You Notice This Red Flag at the Grocery Store, Never Buy the Watermelon

Watermelon is usually judged by sweetness clues: the creamy field spot, the heavy feel, the dull rind, or the famous knock test. But the most important warning sign at the grocery store has less to do with flavour and much more to do with safety.

According to food scientist and food safety expert Jennifer Pallian, shoppers should avoid pre-cut watermelon that is not refrigerated, not packed on ice, or not kept in a cooler case. For whole watermelons, the danger sign is any break in the rind, including cracks, punctures, bruises, or soft mushy spots.