If You Open a Watermelon and See This, Throw It Out!

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## If You Open a Watermelon and See This, Throw It Out!

There’s nothing like cutting into a fresh, juicy watermelon on a hot day — it’s the ultimate summer treat. But did you know that not *every* watermelon is safe to eat?

If you open a watermelon and notice certain warning signs, it could mean the fruit has gone bad — or worse, that it’s unsafe for consumption. **Here’s what to look for — and why you should throw it out immediately if you see any of these red flags.**

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### 🚫 1. Large, Unnatural Cracks Inside the Flesh

If you cut into your watermelon and see **split or hollowed sections in the flesh**, that’s not normal. This condition, known as **“hollow heart,”** can happen due to rapid growth or temperature changes during farming.

While mild hollow heart isn’t always dangerous, **large internal cracks can allow bacteria to grow inside**, especially if the rind was compromised before cutting. If it smells off or the texture is mushy around the cracks, play it safe — toss it.

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### 🚫 2. Slimy Texture or Sour Smell

Fresh watermelon should be firm and crisp — never slimy or sticky. If the flesh feels gooey or has an unusual **sour or fermented smell**, it has likely started to rot or ferment.

Eating spoiled watermelon can lead to **stomach cramps, food poisoning, or nausea.** If your watermelon smells like alcohol or vinegar, that’s a clear sign of fermentation — time to let it go.

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