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General Produce

Melons, Watermelons

Watermelons
Common Packs:

35- to 70-lb. cartons holding various counts

Bulk bins

Receiving Inspecting:

A watermelon should exhibit shape and rind color characteristic of its variety. All varieties should be firm and symmetrical. Watermelons should be
ripe upon arrival; they do not ripen after harvesting. Ripe indicators include a dull rind, dried stem, and yellowish underside where the melon touched the ground. A ripe watermelon will produce a distinct hollow sound when thumped. Immaturity is indicated by a shiny rind and a white, pale green, or light yellow underside.

Storage Handling:
 

Short-term storage recommendation (7 days or less)

  • 45-50° F/7-10° C
  • 85-95% relative humidity
Shelf-Life:
14 to 21 days.
Troubleshooting:

Pitting of rind, off-flavor, and loss of color indicate chill injury; do not store below 41° F/5° C.

Mealy or soft flesh occurs when fruit is exposed to ethylene gas; do not store near ethylene-producing fruits.

Usage Ideas:

  • Combine watermelon chunks, chopped tomatoes, and cucumber chunks with baby dill vinaigrette; serve with flank steak.