From hydration and antioxidants to potential adulterants like carbide and erythrosine, learn how to enjoy watermelon safely and make informed choices this season
In the midst of a scorching summer day, when the sun reigns supreme and the air shimmers with heat, there emerges a saviour like no other than watermelon.Watermelon(Citrullus lanatus), a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, is related to squash, cucumber, pumpkin, and gourds. An ordinary watermelon comprises about 68% flesh or pulp, 30% rind, and 2% seeds. There are around 1,200 varieties of watermelon. The first watermelon harvest was documented in Egypt 5,000 years ago. It has since spread far to other parts of the world. China is a major producing country and India is ranked as the 3rd.
Uttar Pradesh shares the highest share in national production (21.9 %), Andhra Pradesh (19.49 %), Tamil Nadu (9.77 %), Karnataka (8.09 %) and Jammu & Kashmir (0.26 %). Watermelon in India is recognised in local languages as Tarbooz (Hindi and Urdu), Kallangadiballi (Kannada), Tormuj (Bengali), Indrak (Gujarati), Tarbuj (Manipuri), Kaduvrindavana (Marathi), Eriputccha (Telugu) and Hendwend (Kashmiri).
Beyond Sweetness: Unveiling the Benefits of Watermelon
Its exterior, a mosaic of vibrant green stripes, hides within it a treasure trove of refreshment and sustenance. Watermelons are loaded with plentiful nutrients, such as vitamin C, pantothenic acid, copper, biotin, vitamin A, and vitamins B6 & B1.
Some benefits out from Watermelons
- Hydration: Watermelon has high water content (approx. 92 %) with low calories and is highly nutritious, an excellent choice for staying hydrated, especially during summer, fasting and after rigorous exercise.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Watermelon is packed with antioxidants like lycopene, vitamin C, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthinwhich scavenge free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases and inflammation (due to the presence of phenolic and flavonoid compounds).
- Eye Health: Watermelon is a good source of beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy eyesight and may help prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other eye disorders.
- Skin Health: The combination of vitamins A and C in watermelon can contribute to healthy skin by promoting collagen production and protecting against sun damage.
- Heart Health: Lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in watermelon, has been linked to cardiovascular health. It may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease by improving blood vessel function.
- Immune Support: The vitamin C content in watermelon can boost the immune system, helping the body fight off infections and illnesses.
- Muscle Recovery: Watermelon contains citrulline, an amino acid that facilitates muscle recovery post-exercise by reducing muscle soreness and improving exercise performance.
- Digestive Health: It is rich in fibre, which promotes healthy digestion and may help prevent constipation.
- Weight Management: Despite its sweetness, watermelon is relatively low in calories and fat, making it a suitable option for those watching their weight or trying to maintain a healthy weight.
- Hydration for Skin and Hair: The high water content in watermelon can also help keep your skin and hair hydrated, contributing to a healthy appearance.
Uncovering Risks: Potential Adulterants in Your Watermelon and Their Health Implications
Erythrosine adulterant
Due to the alarming demand for Watermelons, consumers are deceived by appealing red watermelons by injected Erthyrosine, which is a pink dye, to impart red colour to the pulp. According to FSSAI(Food Safety and Standards Authority of India), you can detect it while cutting watermelons into two halves and take cotton balls by dabbing on the pulp. The fruit is adulterated with pink dye if the cotton ball turns red.
Understanding the risk of Erythrosine
In 2019 Study on Zebrafish embryo development: Erythrosine was linked to Altered Childhood behaviour and Thyroid Function and was toxic to the reproductive and developmental processes. Higher intake raises public health concerns.
Carbide is added to ripen it quickly
Carbide Accelerates Fruit Ripening with Health Risks
Marketers often purchase underdeveloped fruits from farmers and expedite their ripening process using carbide to maximise profits. The white powdery substance observed on fruits, like watermelons, mangoes, and bananas, is actually carbide. If carbide residue is noticed on the fruit’s surface, it is advisable to thoroughly clean it before consumption
Understanding the risk of carbides
This substance is highly toxic and can pose significant risks to human health if consumed in excess. Symptoms of overexposure may include headaches, skin irritations, and respiratory issues. Moreover, it has adverse effects on the nervous system, leading to conditions such as seizures, delirium, and potentially coma.
Avoid buying off-season fruits
To meet demand, sellers often resort to artificial ripening methods using chemicals, posing significant health risks upon consumption. Health experts advise against purchasing out-of-season fruits and vegetables. Always wash seasonal produce thoroughly before cutting and check for freshness prior to purchase.
The writer is a research scholar at the Department of Food Science and Technology in the Food Molecular Biology Laboratory, Pondicherry University
Irshad Ahmad Shah
ir***********@***il.com