How to choose watermelon
Summer is hot, and watermelon is popular as a saint for cooling off the heat. Faced with the dazzling variety of watermelon varieties and uneven prices on the market, how to choose high-quality melons with thin skin and sweet meat? What is the secret behind the price differences between different watermelon varieties? This article will provide you with a comprehensive analysis of watermelon selection techniques and price conditions. Seven golden rules for watermelon selection are related to weight and maturity. When selecting watermelons of the same variety, it is recommended to give priority to individuals with lighter weight. The weight of mature watermelon will decrease by 5%-8% due to the conversion of water into sugar. This physical change is a key indicator of increased sweetness. Method for testing the status of melon stalks The stalks of fresh watermelons are bright green and stiff. Dehydrated and black or soft stalks indicate that they have been picked for more than 3 days. Special attention should be paid to the connection between the melon handle and the melon body, and clear juice should seep out from the fresh incision. Relationship between cortex and maturity. High-quality watermelon skins have obvious wax texture and can feel a rebound space of 0.5-1mm when pressed. During testing, you can flick the melon body lightly. Mature watermelon will make a dull knocking sound, while unripe melons will make a crisp sound. Judging by color and texture, the turquoise skin and dark green stripes are signs of maturity, and the area of yellow-white patches (commonly known as "sitting spots") should account for about 1/5 of the melon body. If the lines are evenly spaced and the bumps are obvious, the sweetness can usually reach more than 12 degrees. Morphological optimization rule Standard oval melons have the most uniform sweetness distribution, and deformed melons are mostly caused by external pressure during growth. When purchasing, it is recommended to choose a melon body with a ratio of longitudinal diameter to transverse diameter of 1:1.2-1.5. This form is most conducive to sugar accumulation. Analysis of factors affecting watermelon prices. Variety differences pricing Kirin melons are priced at 1.5-3 yuan/catty due to their thin skin and crispy meat. Black beauty watermelon remains at 1-2 yuan/catty due to its storage-resistant characteristics. In recent years, a new variety of rainbow watermelon has adopted three-dimensional cultivation techniques, and the price can reach 8-12 yuan/catty. Seasonal fluctuations The price of watermelon in season (June to August) generally drops by 30%. In winter, due to the increase in light costs, the price of greenhouse melons usually increases by 2-3 times. Price fluctuations of 10%-15% will occur on the eve of special festivals. Regional price differences The direct supply market in producing areas is 40% cheaper than that in supermarkets, and the price in core areas of first-tier cities is 20% higher than that in suburbs. The price of Japanese square watermelons introduced by cross-border e-commerce platforms can reach 150-200 yuan per catty.
Mastering scientific watermelon selection skills and price rules can not only purchase high-quality fruits, but also reasonably plan the purchase budget. Consumers are advised to give priority to medium-sized watermelons supplied directly from the origin based on seasonal characteristics, which not only ensures freshness but also is cost-effective. Regularly pay attention to price fluctuations in local wholesale markets to achieve free watermelon throughout the year.