How to Wash and Scrub Cantaloupes

Cantaloupe can contain harmful bacteria (Salmonella) because of the surface of the outer “skin” therefore it is recommended to wash and scrub the melon thoroughly before cutting and consumption. Cantaloupes consist of a netted surface which easily can catch and trap debris from soils into the surface. When cutting into the melon, the knife can pull bacteria into and through the melon. Thus, washing and scrubbing can prevent that from occurring.

The fruit should be refrigerated after cutting it and consumed in less than three days to prevent risk of Salmonella or other bacterial pathogens.