Cracks Inside a Watermelon: Should You Throw It Away?
Not necessarily. If you cut open a watermelon and see cracks running through the flesh, it may simply have a condition called “hollow heart.” These internal cracks can develop because of growing conditions and are not, by themselves, a sign of disease or dangerous contamination. The Watermelon Board says these melons are safe to eat and may even taste sweeter around the cracks.
What should you actually look for?
Throw the watermelon away if you notice:
- Mold
- A slimy or unusually mushy texture
- A strong sour, fermented, or unpleasant smell
- Obvious rotting or decay
- A damaged/cracked outer rind that may have allowed contamination inside
A crack inside the watermelon is different from a crack through the outer rind. Damage to the rind can allow microorganisms to enter and can shorten the fruit’s shelf life.
🧊 After cutting
Wash the outside of the watermelon under running water before cutting it, because a knife can transfer microorganisms from the rind to the flesh. Once cut, refrigerate the watermelon promptly; USDA guidance notes that cut watermelon can generally be kept refrigerated for up to about 5 days.
