August is the beginning of the watermelon season, and August 3 is World Watermelon Day! It is necessary to celebrate this holiday properly by choosing the juiciest and sweetest watermelon of all on the shelves!
Watermelon season
First, you shouldn't buy a watermelon earlier or later than their season - August and early September. They are often loaded with nitrates and offer very little benefit. Plus, they're not that tasty.
Clear stripes
The sharper the contrast between light and dark stripes, the clearer their outline, the more ripe the watermelon.
Size and weight
The watermelon should be large, but not very heavy. The larger and lighter the watermelon, the more juicy and ripe it is.
Stain on the side
There should be a bright yellow spot on the watermelon, the brighter it is, the better. It says that the watermelon lay on the ground and ripened all the time it needed.
Sound
Knock on the watermelon - the "correct" watermelon should make dull sounds when knocking. In addition, there should be a slight crackling sound when squeezing the watermelon.
You shouldn't buy watermelons from roadside vendors. Or at least before buying, ask them for a medical record and documents confirming the quality and safety of the presented product.
Do not buy cracked or cut watermelons - they could get germs and dirt.
