1️⃣ Check the Color Outside 🍃
- Real: Has a dull, uniform green color with a creamy yellow patch (field spot).
- Fake/Ripened with chemicals: Shiny surface, no field spot or unusually bright green.
2️⃣ Tap Test 👂
- Knock or tap the watermelon gently.
- Real: Produces a deep, hollow sound.
- Fake or overripe: Gives a dull or flat thud.
3️⃣ Check the Tail (Stem) 🍃
- Dry and brown: Indicates ripeness.
- Green and fresh stem: Plucked too early — may not be fully ripe.
4️⃣ Observe the Flesh Inside 🍉
- Real: Deep red with black or brown seeds.
- Fake: Very bright red (almost unnaturally), often with white seeds.
⚠️ Note: Overuse of chemicals like erythrosine (artificial red dye) can be dangerous.
5️⃣ Water Test 💧
- Mix a small piece of watermelon pulp in water:
- Real: Water stays mostly clear.
- Fake (dyed): Water turns red or pink quickly — sign of artificial coloring.
6️⃣ Taste Test 👅
- Real: Naturally sweet and juicy.
- Fake: Either bland or excessively sweet (from injected sugar solution or adulterants).
7️⃣ Crack Test 🍽️
- When cut, a real watermelon should not have too many cracks or fibers inside.
- Cracks may indicate growth hormone injection.
🚫 Chemicals to Watch Out For:
- Erythrosine dye (Red-3): Used to make flesh unnaturally red.
- Oxytocin or growth enhancers: To speed up fruit development.
- These can cause digestive and hormonal issues if consumed regularly.
✅ Quick Summary (For a Visual Post):
| Test | Real | Fake |
|---|
| Color | Dull green with yellow spot | Too shiny & bright |
| Tap | Deep, hollow sound | Dull thud |
| Water test | Clear water | Turns red |
| Flesh | Natural red + black seeds | Bright red + white seeds |
