This small trick can tell you whether you are consuming watermelon or a toxic fruit

Summer afternoons are incomplete without the goodness and sweetness of watermelon. It’s sweet, hydrating, and the perfect way to cool down when the heat is relentless. Rich in vitamins A and C, this fruit which contains 90% water supports healthy skin, boosts immunity, and promotes good vision. It is also a good source of antioxidants like lycopene, which may help protect the body from cell damage and support heart health. But as demand for this refreshing fruit shoots up, so does the risk of adulteration. To make watermelons look redder, juicier, or fresher, some sellers may use unsafe chemicals or artificial dyes. According to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the most common adulterant used with watermelon is erythrosine, which is no less than a poison for the human body. FSSAI recommends customers be attentive while buying watermelon and follow this simple trick to check its purity. Scroll down to read the details.

According to FSSAI, simply cut the watermelon into two halves. Take a small cotton ball and rub it on the inner succulent part of the watermelon. The cotton ball rubbed on the unadulterated watermelon does not change colour. The cotton ball rubbed in the adulterated watermelon turns red. It has been found that it is mostly adulterated with erythrosine.

It is a synthetic red/pink food dye commonly used to give a bright cherry-like color to foods. It is also known as Red No. 3 (E127) and is often found in fruits; it is also used in beverages and processed foods.

Side effects: While a small amount of this synthetic colour is not harmful, its excessive intake via fruits may affect the thyroid gland, potentially disrupting hormone function. Its excessive intake is also linked to increased hyperactivity and attention issues in some children. It also causes skin rashes, itching, and sensitive reactions.

Scoop out some of the red pulp and mix it in a glass of water. If the water instantly changes colour or turns reddish, it’s likely laced with dye. A natural watermelon won’t bleed colour into water. This quick test helps you avoid chemical-laced fruit and keeps your summer snacking safe. It’s a simple habit that can make a big difference during peak season.

Real watermelon seeds are black or brown, depending on the variety. If you find red or pink seeds, something’s not right. Artificial colouring can sometimes seep into the seeds when the flesh is tampered with. While this might sound like a tiny detail, it’s actually one of the easiest and most visual indicators of adulteration.

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