Frequently Asked Question

   What region of the world do Melons come from?

          Many Melons originated in the Middle East and gradually spread their popularity across Europe.

   How did the Melons arrive in the U.S.?

          Melon seeds were transported to the United States by Columbus and eventually cultivated by Spanish

          explorers in California.

   What family of plants do Melons belong to?

          Melons, Squashes, and Cucumbers all belong to the Cucurbitaceae, or gourd family of plants.

   How many varieties are in the Melon family?

          Melon varieties are now endless! Cantaloupe, Honeydew, and Watermelon are the most well known varieties.

   What is the origin of the name Cantaloupe?

          Cantaloupe gets its name from the Italian city of Cantalupo, where it was grown since the first century AD.

   How do I select a good Melon?

          Melons should not have cracks, soft spots, or dark bruises. Avoid those with green or very yellow rind,

          soft rind, off fragrance, large bruises, cuts, shriveled skin or mold.

   Are Melons a good source of vitamins?

          Melons are a good source of vitamin C and potassium. They have high water content are relatively low in calories,

          They are also fat and cholesterol free.

          Cantaloupes are exceptional sources of beta carotene, which provides vitamin A.

          Honeydews are rich in vitamin C and potassium.

          Watermelons are full of vitamin C and they're also a good source of vitamin A, potassium and fiber.

          They also contain high amounts of lycopene, a substance that can prevent heart diseases and some cancers.

   Which Melon is the sweetest one?

          Honeydew-The sweetest of all the Melons.

   Will a Melon get sweeter after it's harvest?

          Melons will not get sweeter after they are harvested. They have no starch reserves to convert to sugar.

   What is the best way to serve Melons?

          Most Melons will benefit from a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to enhance the flavor and served at room temperature.

   What is the best way to remove the seeds from the Melons?

          Use a large spoon or an ice cream scoop to remove the seeds from a Melon.

   How do you keep a Melon moist during storage after it was cut?

          Leaving the seeds in a halved Melon during storage will help keep it moist

   Is there any use for the Watermelon peel?

          In North America, pickled Watermelon peel has long been a favorite relish.

          A recipe was included in a 1796 book called "American Cookbook" by Amelia Simmons-Citron.

   Is there a use for the Watermelon seeds?

   How can I make popsicles from Watermelons?

          Puree and freeze Watermelon juice for refreshing ice pops.

   I was told you can make beer from Watermelon, is it true?

          Yes, In Russia a beer is made from Watermelon juice.

 © 2006-"The Sol Group"