What Causes Watermelon to Spoil?

Several factors can shorten freshness:

• Heat exposure
• Long storage times
• Damage during transport
• Cutting and leaving unrefrigerated
• Moisture buildup

Once sliced, watermelon should usually be refrigerated and eaten within a few days.

Can Overripe Watermelon Make You Sick?

In mild cases, spoiled fruit may only taste unpleasant. But contaminated watermelon can sometimes lead to:

• Nausea
• Stomach cramps
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Young children, elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems are generally more sensitive to foodborne bacteria.

Final Tip

When it comes to questionable fruit, it’s usually better to be cautious. If a watermelon smells strange, feels slimy, or shows signs of spoilage, throwing it away is the safest choice.