Should wet watermelon seeds be refrigerated or frozen

It is recommended to refrigerate wet watermelon seeds for short-term storage, while freezing is more suitable for long-term storage. Watermelon seeds have a high moisture content and can maintain their taste for 3-5 days when refrigerated. Freezing can extend the storage time to over 1 month, but it is important to seal and prevent moisture. When wet watermelon seeds are refrigerated, their moisture and texture change slowly, which can maintain a crispy and tender taste, making them suitable for consumption in the near future. The refrigeration temperature inhibits bacterial growth, but cannot completely prevent mold growth. It is necessary to use a fresh-keeping box or sealed bag to isolate the refrigerator odor. If there is a sticky or sour taste on the surface, it should be discarded immediately. After refrigeration, it can be consumed directly or briefly reheated without affecting the flavor. Freezing can cause the internal water of watermelon seeds to crystallize, and there may be slight softening after thawing, but there is less loss of nutrients. Before freezing, it is necessary to drain the water and pack separately to avoid frost and adhesion. It is recommended to thaw naturally or microwave on low heat. High temperature thawing can easily lead to a tougher texture. Freezing is suitable for situations where the production volume is large or long-term storage is required, such as preparing baking ingredients for later use. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles will accelerate the decline in quality. It is recommended to consume as soon as possible after a single thawing.

Regardless of refrigeration or freezing, watermelon seeds should be thoroughly cleaned and the surface moisture dried before storage to avoid residual fruit pulp fermentation and spoilage. Choose glass or food grade plastic materials for sealed containers to reduce odor adsorption. If used for cooking, frozen watermelon seeds can be directly added to hot food without thawing. It is recommended to handle small amounts multiple times for daily storage to maintain the freshness of the ingredients. For individuals with special physical conditions such as gastrointestinal sensitivity, it is recommended to refrigerate and consume within 24 hours.