Nutritionist warned against eating early watermelons

Nutritionist Elena Solomatina told why early watermelons can be dangerous and how to choose a safe fruit.

In an interview with Sputnik radio on June 27, the specialist noted that it is safest to buy watermelons in season — in the second half of July and in August. Early berries are often grown using nitrates, which can turn into nitrites and carcinogenic nitrosamines. This can cause tissue hypoxia and increase the risk of disease.

However, as the expert emphasized, improper storage of watermelons is no less dangerous, especially cut and without refrigeration. Under such conditions, bacteria multiply rapidly in the pulp.

Solomatina advises choosing watermelons with a whole, dense skin, a dry tail and without damage — this reduces the risk to health. 360.ru .

On June 25, environmentalist Ilya Rybalchenko told RIAMO that it is impossible to determine the safety of a watermelon without special equipment. Currently, imported watermelons are predominant on sale, while traditional Krasnodar watermelons will appear no earlier than August. Life.ru .

On June 24, biologist Vitaly Polov stated that early watermelons and melons should not be consumed by children because of the accelerated cultivation technology, which implies the active use of nitrates. Eating such watermelons or melons in large quantities can lead to an upset stomach, possibly an allergic reaction, and fever.

Previously Pravda.Referring to nutritionist Anastasia Tarasco, she wrote that watermelon can be safely stored for no more than six months if proper storage and transportation conditions are met. When buying, you need to pay attention to the integrity of the watermelon: is there any rot, unpleasant odor. The bark should be whole and dry.