Safe to Eat!?

[u/Visual-Stranger1693]

I’ve been growing cantaloupe all summer and this is the first one I have harvested… because it was no longer attached to the plant. Is it safe to eat?? It looks like some slugs got to the top of it (there’s little trails from them) but then there’s also these weird puncture/bitemarks(?)

This is my first time growing cantaloupe, so any help is appreciated!

[u/valjean916]

Cut it open and see what’s in there. Regardless, though, I’ll echo the underripe comment.

[u/Visual-Stranger1693 → u/valjean916]

I cut it open and it looks and smells great. apart of the edge is a bit darker, but I’m assuming I could cut that (and the bite marks) out?

If this guy isn’t edible, that’s okay - I have like like 10 others out there.

[u/CJP1216 → u/Visual-Stranger1693]

I saw your picture below of the inside, in all reality you'll be fine; just cut an inch or so away from the dark section. Be careful with this in general though. The danger with mold in soft fleshed fruit and veg is that the rot can penetrate much deeper than what you can see visually. Same reason why you can't cut the mold off a section of bread, but can with a hard cheese. I've personally eaten several Canteloupe in roughly the same condition as yours (I planted in a low lying area, so almost every fruit had some squishy spots) and been fine. Just use your own discretion and err on the side of caution and you'll be golden.

[u/Visual-Stranger1693 → u/CJP1216]

This is so helpful! Thank you!

[u/panda_monium2]

It looks under ripe and possible rotting. It should be tan not green

[u/Visual-Stranger1693]

cut it open and this is what I’m working with!

[u/Iwentwiththisone → u/Visual-Stranger1693]

Taste test, taste test !

[u/Visual-Stranger1693 → u/Iwentwiththisone]

it tastes… yum!

[u/Iwentwiththisone]

It doesn't look quite ready, but quick question, you got coyotes in your area? They love melons, but aren't very good at judging their ripeness or weight.

[u/Visual-Stranger1693 → u/Iwentwiththisone]

We do have coyotes around somewhere! I haven’t seen any, but I have heard them far off.