Six spoilage signs that mean you should stop eating it
While cracks alone are not a reliable red flag, certain other signs clearly indicate spoilage. Experts recommend discarding a watermelon immediately if you notice any of the following: a sour or fermented smell, mold on the rind or flesh, a slimy texture, dark or discolored flesh, large soft or rotten areas, or liquid leaking from the fruit.
These indicators point to bacterial or fungal activity — actual spoilage — rather than a structural quirk from the growing process. If internal cracks appear alongside any of these signs, the fruit should not be eaten.
Four practical tips for picking a better watermelon at the store
Choosing well at the point of purchase is the most reliable way to avoid disappointment. Experts recommend picking a watermelon that feels heavy for its size — a sign of high water content — and looking for a creamy yellow patch on the underside, known as the field spot, which indicates the fruit ripened fully on the ground.
Tapping the watermelon should produce a deep, hollow sound. A dull or flat thud can suggest the flesh is already breaking down. Avoid fruit with major bruises or deep external cuts, which can allow bacteria to reach the interior.
Once cut, refrigerate leftover watermelon promptly. Proper storage slows bacterial growth and preserves the texture of a fruit that passed all the freshness checks above.
