How to choose Hami melons to know they are sweet

Choosing sweet Hami melons can be judged by observing their appearance, pressing their hardness, smelling their aroma, examining their stems, and weighing them.

1. Appearance

Hami melons with high maturity have a uniform yellow or orange yellow skin, clear and raised mesh patterns, and dense distribution. There is no damage or depression on the surface, and the melon shape is full and symmetrical. Melons with more green and green parts usually have insufficient maturity and lower sweetness. Some varieties secrete sticky sugar crystals on their epidermis, which is also a sign of high sweetness.

2. Hardness

Gently press the navel of the cantaloupe with your fingers, and the mature cantaloupe will show moderate elasticity. After pressing, it can slowly rebound. If it is too hard, it indicates immaturity; if it is too soft, it may be too ripe or spoiled. Simultaneously tapping the melon body, the sound is usually dull and thick, and the flesh is fuller and sweeter.

3. Odor

Smell near the stem of the cantaloupe. High quality cantaloupe will emit a rich fruity aroma, while sweet varieties have a honey like sweet and greasy aroma. If there is no obvious aroma or a grassy taste, it is usually not mature enough. If there is a fermented or alcoholic taste, it indicates that it has started to spoil.

4. The naturally ripe stem of Hami melon will form a circular depression, and it will dry, shrink, and easily fall off. If the stem is green and moist or forcibly broken, it may be harvested in advance. Melons with cracks around the stem usually accumulate more sugar, but insect infestation or mechanical damage must be ruled out.

5. Choosing a melon with a heavier texture for the same volume indicates higher moisture and sugar content. Melons that are too light may have dried flesh due to lack of water, which can affect their sweetness. However, it should be noted that some low-quality melons that have been injected with water for weight gain can be judged by shaking to see if there is obvious water sound inside.

After purchase, the cantaloupe can be placed in a cool and ventilated place to continue ripening for 1-2 days, and the sugar conversion will be more complete. If the melon flesh is found to be semi transparent and the seed cavity is dry after cutting, the sweetness is usually better. In summer, it is recommended to refrigerate before consumption, as low temperatures can enhance the perception of sweetness. For those with gastrointestinal sensitivity, it is recommended to remove the green part close to the melon skin to avoid excessive consumption that may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Hami melon has a high sugar content, so people with diabetes need to control their intake.