45 piece Watermelon aka "西瓜" Watermelon is a summer fruit with high water content (more than 90%). It is usually round or oblong shape with light green and dark green rinds down the side. The flesh is bright red with black and white seeds inside. The white seeds are edible. Watermelon tastes crisp, juicy, and sweet. This is a beloved fruit for summer because it is refreshing and hydrating. Watermelon is available year-round from various locations. Handling Tip Selection Watermelon has a symmetrical uniform shape with a waxy, dull appearance. Watermelon is heavy for its size with no signs of bruises or decay. Look for the yellow spot on the watermelon. This is where the watermelon rests on the ground. Watermelon is ripe if the spot is an orange-yellow color. Light yellow means the watermelon is not yet ready. Large webbing on the surface means the watermelon is ripe. Tap the underbelly of the watermelon for a deep hollow sound. Storage Watermelon should be stored at 50°F - 59°F (10°C – 15°C) with a relative humidity of ninety percent and no mist. The typical shelf life is two to three weeks following harvest. Watermelon is extremely sensitive to ethylene, a naturally occurring gas that regulates ripening. Watermelon should not be stored with high ethylene-producing products to extend shelf life and avoid softening, rind thinning and fading of flesh color. Watermelon produces a low level of ethylene. Watermelon is sensitive to chilling injury at storage below 50°F (10°C). Symptoms include brown-staining of the rind, surface pitting, deterioration of flavor, fading of flesh color, and an increased incidence of decay after being returned to a higher temperature. Nutrition Fact Serving Size 2 cups diced watermelon pieces (280g) Amount Per Serving % Daily Value* Calories 80 Calories from Fat 0 Total Fat 0g ........................................................................................... 0% Saturated Fat 0g ........................................................................ 0% Trans Fat 0g .................................................................................. 0% Cholesterol 0mg ................................................................................. 0% Sodium 0mg ......................................................................................... 0% Total Carbohydrate 21g ................................................................. 7% Dietary Fiber 1g ......................................................................... 4% Sugar 20g Protein 1g Vitamin A ................................................................................................ 30% Vitamin C ................................................................................................ 25% Calcium .................................................................................................... 2% Iron ............................................................................................................. 4% Potassium ............................................................................................... 8% *The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. *Based on information published by FDA
