Can cantaloupe be eaten if it's not ripe yet

It is usually not recommended to consume unripe cantaloupe as it has a stiff taste, low sweetness, and may irritate the gastrointestinal tract. Fully ripe cantaloupe has soft and juicy flesh, rich in nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium, while immature cantaloupe may contain higher concentrations of cucurbitacin substances, and excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Immature Hami fruits have tight flesh and insufficient sugar conversion, resulting in obvious astringency and sourness when consumed directly. Some people may experience bloating or diarrhea. The content of cucurbitacin in the skin and flesh of the fruit is relatively high, and incomplete peeling may increase the burden on the digestive tract. If the Hami melon is not ripe for a long time due to improper storage, the cellulose in the flesh may be difficult to digest, which may cause symptoms of indigestion. For those with weak gastrointestinal function or children, it is even more important to avoid consuming unripe cantaloupe. In rare cases, slightly unripe cantaloupe near the stem may have a slight sweetness, but it is generally not harmful to consume in small amounts after removing the outer layer of hard skin. However, it is important to observe whether the color of the fruit flesh is uniform and avoid selecting parts where the flesh turns green or white. If symptoms such as nausea and abdominal pain occur after ingestion, drinking warm water can relieve them. If discomfort persists, seek medical attention. When purchasing in summer, gently press the navel of the melon. Mature melons are those that are elastic and emit fruity aroma.

Daily recommendation: Place the cantaloupe in a cool and ventilated place to naturally ripen, and wait for the stem to soften slightly and the fruit aroma to become strong before consuming. Avoid contact with fruits such as apples and bananas that release a large amount of ethylene during storage to prevent excessive ripening and decay. Mature cantaloupe can be sliced and refrigerated for storage, but should not exceed two days to preserve its best flavor and nutrition. Individuals with sensitive digestive systems should limit their daily intake to no more than 200 grams and avoid consuming on an empty stomach.