How and where to store a watermelon correctly?

The term and method of storage of a watermelon depends on whether the fruit is in a whole or cut. In the second case, it is more difficult to preserve juiciness and freshness. In general, watermelon can be stored for several months, but subject to certain rules. If, when buying a fruit, it is known that in the near future it will not be eaten, then the seller should ask about the variety. Late-ripening watermelons have the longest shelf life.

The nuances of storing watermelon:

• for long-term storage, watermelons with thick skin, without dents and mechanical damage, not beaten are ideal;
• the main condition for storing watermelon (in addition to creating the necessary temperature regimes) is to exclude its contact with a hard surface or other fruits, therefore it is recommended to place it on a dense fabric;
• during storage, the watermelon must be periodically turned over, without changing the temperature regime (temperature drops have a negative effect on any vegetables, fruits and berries);
• the cut watermelon cannot be stored at room temperature (it is better to use a refrigerator for this);
• the moisture in the watermelon rises up, therefore, when storing the cut watermelon, it must be placed with a cut down;
• a watermelon must be wrapped in cling film using a special method – along with a plate on which it is placed with a cut down (if you wrap a slice or a half of a watermelon in a film, then when in contact with it, the pulp will become slippery and acquire an unpleasant appearance with secretions similar to mucus);
• if you put a watermelon in a bucket or pan, and then close the lid and put it in a dark, cool place, then such conditions can be equated to the atmosphere in the cellar (you do not need to put the container in the refrigerator);
• if it is possible to create temperature conditions for the watermelon + 2- + 3 degrees, then you can extend its shelf life (in an uncut form) using moss bedding;
• one of the main conditions for storing watermelon is to exclude the ingress of light (the fruit will be stored longer when in absolute darkness);
• to preserve the appearance of the watermelon, you can use melted wax (paraffin is applied to the surface of the watermelon, and after it hardens, the fruit is sent to a cool and dark place);
• it is especially not recommended to store watermelon near potatoes (the shelf life under such conditions can be reduced several times);
• air humidity during storage of watermelons should be in the range from 80 to 85%;
• watermelons are well kept hanging (the fruit is placed in a net or cloth and then hung in a dark and cool enough place).

Ideal places for storing watermelon at home are (with the obligatory creation of dark conditions):

• bathroom;
• pantry;
• mezzanine;
• balcony;
• refrigerator.

How much and at what temperature to store watermelon

The optimum storage temperature for watermelon is from +1 to +3 degrees. Under such conditions, the fruit is able to maintain freshness for 3-4 months without disturbing its taste.

A cut watermelon cannot be stored at room temperature.… In such conditions, it can be kept for 2-3 hours (if the weather is sunny or warm season, then the pulp may begin to deteriorate within an hour). This nuance plays a special role. The fact is that stale watermelon can be poisoned. Bacteria that rapidly appear and multiply on juicy pulp are dangerous to health. These processes are accelerated due to the influence of heat. The cut watermelon should be stored at a temperature of -10 degrees.

It is recommended to store the cut watermelon in the refrigerator for no more than a day. During this time, the flavoring properties of the pulp are preserved, and the risk of the appearance of harmful bacteria is eliminated. Changes become noticeable on the second day. The watermelon becomes less intense in taste and aroma, but still fit for consumption. After 2-3 days of storing it in the refrigerator, you should refuse to use it due to the loss of taste and the beginning of the oxidation process.

The maximum storage temperature for watermelon is +6 degrees. At higher temperatures, the fruit will start to deteriorate faster. In addition, a prerequisite for storage is considered to ensure sufficient air humidity. There is a lot of liquid in watermelon, therefore, the more humidified the air is, the longer the shelf life of the striped fruit will be.

Watermelon pulp can be frozen… It will have to be eaten within a few months. When defrosting, its consistency will change, so these watermelons are more suitable for making desserts or drinks.