That headline is too alarming. Cracks inside a watermelon don’t automatically mean it’s dangerous to eat.
What internal cracks can mean
Watermelon can develop internal cracks or hollow areas because of rapid growth, irregular watering, temperature stress, or other growing conditions. Some cracks are simply quality defects.
However, don’t eat the watermelon if you see signs of spoilage, such as:
- Foul or fermented smell
- Slimy or unusually mushy flesh
- Mold
- Discoloration that looks like decay
- Juice leaking from damaged areas
- A sour or otherwise abnormal taste
If the flesh looks and smells normal and the cracks are dry, clean-looking internal splits, the fruit may still be perfectly edible.
Best rule: Don’t judge watermelon safety from cracks alone—look for actual signs of spoilage and keep cut watermelon refrigerated.
