- texture: Flesh that feels slippery, excessively soft, or breaks down easily may be spoiled.
- Fizzy or tingling sensation: A carbonated or unusual sensation can indicate fermentation. If the watermelon tastes unusual, spit it out rather than continuing to eat it.
- Dark or sunken spots: Significant discoloration, soft spots, or depressions can indicate decay.
- Cracks or damage to the rind: Damaged areas can provide opportunities for microorganisms to enter and accelerate spoilage.
If you notice obvious signs of spoilage, it’s safest to discard the watermelon rather than risk eating it.
