In this brief guide, we will answer the question “How do I know if a cantaloupe is ripe?” with an in-depth analysis of the health effects of eating cantaloupe. Moreover, we will also discuss how you can store cantaloupe properly.
How do I know if a cantaloupe is ripe?
You can check the parameters like the weight, color, texture, smell, and condition of the stem to reach a verdict on whether or not the cantaloupe is ripe.
Heaviness
The tip to know about ripe cantaloupe is that it will weigh heavier than it looks.
Color
A ripe cantaloupe has a beige color. Its skin is usually tan with yellow color and has the flesh coral color.
Texture
The ripe cantaloupe has a firm texture just like a pineapple. But it is not considered as hard as a watermelon.
Smell
Unlike unripe cantaloupe, ripe ones have a pleasant fruity smell which is also a little musky. If your cantaloupe doesn’t have any smell like this it is a sign that it is unripe.
Stem
The attached stem is an indication of early picking. A ripe cantaloupe has a smooth stem area that is a little concave.
Cantaloupe is a juicy summer fruit that is great on its own, in salads, and smoothies. If you don’t know what to look for, you can end up with a bland fruit or a texture that you don’t like. Selecting an excellent cantaloupe, whether picked on the vine or purchased in a store, can be difficult.
How does a ripe cantaloupe taste?
Cantaloupe is sweet, juicy, and soft when harvested at the correct time. The flavor of cantaloupe is unique and slightly flowery. It was perhaps plucked too early if the fruit is bitter or flavorless.
Can you ripen an unripe cantaloupe at home?
Unfortunately, the flavor of a green cantaloupe will not change once it has been removed from the vine. In contrast to mango, banana, or other fruit, it can not be ripened at home.
How does unripe cantaloupe taste?
Due to a decrease in moisture, the unripe cantaloupe becomes hard and unpleasant to eat. Unripe cantaloupe has a bland flavor.
Can you ripe cantaloupe in a paper bag?
Cantaloupe usually does not ripen after it is picked from the vine. You can wrap a cantaloupe in a brown paper bag to make your cantaloupe soft. Leave it for two days to make it soft. You can leave it in a paper bag for a long time to have the desired results.
What is the nutritional value of cantaloupe?
Following is the nutritional value of a 100 grams of cantaloupe:
| Nutrients | Value |
| Calories | 34 |
| Fats | 0.2 grams |
| Cholesterol | 0 grams |
| Sodium | 16 grams |
| Potassium | 267 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 8 grams |
| Protein | 0.8 grams |
| Vitamin C | 16 % of the daily |
| Iron | 1% of the daily value |
| Magnesium | 3% of the daily value |
| Vitamin B6 | 5% of the daily value |
Vitamin C
Cantaloupe is rich in Vitamin C, which is used in the production of blood vessels, and collagen in bones, muscles and cartilage. Studies show that it is beneficial in fighting against diseases like asthma, diabetes and cancer.
Folate
Folate present in cantaloupe is beneficial in reducing the risk of certain types of cancers and preventing memory loss in old age.
Water
Around 90 percent of the cantaloupe is water. It helps you to stay hydrated which is considered good for your health. A hydrated body has good digestion, healthy kidneys and balanced blood pressure.
Fiber
Cantaloupe is known to have some amount of fiber which helps reduce the risk of cardiac disorders and diabetes.
Potassium
Potassium is considered necessary for nerve function and muscular contraction. After exercise, eating a potassium-rich fruit like cantaloupe is good to replace electrolytes.
How to store cantaloupe properly?
Fresh cantaloupe, like watermelon and honeydew, can be kept in the fridge, freezer, or on the counter. To remove bacteria and prevent foodborne disease, wash the cantaloupes with light soap and a produce brush before storing. To understand how to keep cantaloupe, read and follow the below steps:
Whole cantaloupe
After ripening, it can be kept on the counter in a cool, dry place for a couple of days or in the fridge for up to five days.
If your cantaloupe isn’t quite ready, set it out on the counter at room temperature for a day or two to mature. Place the cantaloupe in a brown paper bag to contain the ethylene gas and hasten the ripening process.
Sliced cantaloupe
Refrigerating sliced cantaloupe is one of the simplest ways to keep it fresh. When slicing your cantaloupe, don’t remove the seeds. Keeping the seeds intact extends the shelf life of the cantaloupe. Plastic wrap or plastic bags can be used to wrap the slices. Slices of cantaloupe can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Conclusion
In this brief guide, we have answered the question “How do I know if a cantaloupe is ripe?” with an in-depth analysis of the health effects of eating cantaloupe. Moreover, we have also discussed how you can store cantaloupe properly.