The hidden health threat of watermelons revealed

Early watermelons may contain elevated levels of nitrates due to fertilizers used to accelerate the ripening of the berry.

This was reported in a conversation with RIA Novosti journalists by Dmitry Karpenko, Associate Professor of the Department of Outpatient Therapy at the Institute of Clinical Medicine of Pirogov University.

According to the specialist, the main cause of summer intestinal infections is contamination and pathogenic microorganisms that settle on the surface of products. The situation with nitrates is far more complicated. Karpenko emphasized that in early watermelons, their levels are often elevated — it all comes down to nitrogen fertilizers that are used to artificially stimulate the growth of the berries.

The expert also drew attention to the fact that if nitrate compounds accumulate anywhere, it is mainly in the light-colored zone of the flesh near the rind. He strongly recommends not consuming this part of the fruit.

"The truly peak and most delicious watermelon season begins at the end of July through August. It is during this period that the main harvest of melons and gourds grown in open ground arrives on store shelves. The widest selection and the lowest prices are traditionally expected in August and early September," Karpenko noted.