Muskmelons are loaded with water, fibre, and antioxidants. Do you know that the market is flooded with chemically ripened muskmelons that are injected to look pretty? Eating muskmelon, which is injected, can affect your kidneys and liver.
Smell test
Real muskmelon will have a sweet and refreshing fragrance, while fake melon will have no aroma or strong chemical odour.
Colour test
Real melon will have uniform golden yellow on the outside and pale green on the inside. Fake melon will have uneven dark and light patches.
Cotton ball test
Take a cotton ball and dab it on the pulp; if it turns colour, then it is chemically injected by the colour-enhancing dyes.
Weight test
Natural melons are light and slightly empty from the inside. If it is chemically ripened, it will be heavy to lift.
Taste test
Taste a small piece of muskmelon to test the adulteration. If it is sweet and grainy, it is real; if it is overly sweet and water, it is fake.
Information credits
This information is taken from the Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional regarding any side effects.