Ancient Roots: Watermelons have a long history, with evidence suggesting they were cultivated in ancient Egypt over 4,000 years ago. Archaeologists have even found watermelon seeds in King Tut's tomb.
Global Production: China is the world's largest producer of watermelons, accounting for over 60% of the global production. Other significant producers include Turkey, Iran, and the United States.
High Water Content: As the name suggests, watermelons are composed mostly of water, about 92% to be exact. This high water content makes them a refreshing and hydrating fruit, especially in hot weather.
Seedless Varieties: While many people enjoy seedless watermelons for convenience, they are actually not completely seedless. They typically have small, white, edible seeds that are much less noticeable than the black seeds found in traditional varieties.
Nutrient-Rich: Watermelons are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to various health benefits.
Different Shapes and Colors: Watermelons come in various shapes and colors, not just the familiar round, green ones with pink or red flesh. Some varieties have yellow or orange flesh, and there are even smaller, elongated watermelons.
Thump Test: Many people use the "thump test" to determine if a watermelon is ripe. A ripe watermelon should produce a deep, hollow sound when tapped. This method is not foolproof, but it's a common practice.
Medieval Medicine: In medieval times, watermelons were believed to have medicinal properties. They were used to treat various ailments, including digestive issues and mental disorders.
Sources:
Global production https://www.statista.com/statistics/682087/asia-pacific-watermelon-production-by-country/
Nutrient rich https://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-health-benefits-of-watermelon