KARACHI: With heatwaves gripping several southern parts of Pakistan while GLOF-like events strain the north, the public is turning to summer staples like watermelon for relief. But the rush to beat the heat comes with hidden risks that consumers need to know, health experts warn.
The reminder comes after several social media posts mentioning “Watermelon safety tips you should know this summer”.
One user wrote, “Sad story. Hope the family recovers well,” suggesting recent illness linked to unsafe fruit consumption. Another commented, “Best please don’t eat watermelon so our farmers will learn the lesson,” reflecting growing distrust in market practices.
Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast above-normal temperatures across Sindh, Balochistan, and southern Punjab through May.
In Karachi alone, street vendors report a 40% spike in watermelon sales compared to April. Yet high heat accelerates bacterial growth, especially when fruit is pre-cut and left uncovered. Food safety officials also note seasonal surges in adulteration cases, where erythrosine dye or artificial sweeteners are injected to mimic ripeness and boost sales.
Dr. Ayesha Karim, a public health nutritionist based in Karachi, says: “Watermelon is 92% water and excellent for hydration. But once cut, it becomes a breeding ground for E. coli and Salmonella if kept above 5°C for more than two hours. Add chemical adulteration, and you’re looking at stomach infections, vomiting, or worse.”
How to Stay Safe
1. Buy whole, not pre-cut: Wash the rind before slicing to prevent bacteria transfer.
2. Check the flesh: Avoid melons with foaming, sour smell, or unnatural deep-red color that bleeds.
3. Refrigerate fast: Store cut pieces below 5°C and consume within 3 days.
4. Trust your taste: If it tastes bitter, chemically sweet, or “fizzy,” discard it.
Punjab Food Authority has announced random market inspections this week. Consumers are urged to report suspected adulteration via the PFA helpline 0800-02345.
Bottom line: Don’t skip watermelon — it’s one of the safest ways to stay hydrated. Just source it smart, cut it clean, and chill it fast.
