Seasonality:
- Cantaloupes are in peak season April through December.
Health Benefits of Cantaloupe:
- Cantaloupes are an excellent source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C.
- Also high in fiber and folacin, a nutrient needed for growth and the development of hemoglobin.
How to Select Cantaloupe:
- Look for cantaloupes with prominent creamed-colored ridges on the skin with a sweet, musky aroma.
- The stem end should be smooth with no remnant of a stem attached.
How to Store Cantaloupe:
- Store cantaloupes in the refrigerator and wait to cut until ready to eat.
- Avoid leaving cut cantaloupe at room temperature for an extended length of time.
How to Prepare Cantaloupe:
- Be sure to wash your melon thoroughly before cutting, so you don’t carry any surface bacteria into the edible melon flesh.
- Using a large, sharp knife, cut your cantaloupe in half, making sure to cut through the stem area. Remove the seeds and cut into wedges or slices.
Fun Facts About Cantaloupe:
- The melon that’s most widely recognized as cantaloupe in the US is actually a reticulated muskmelon. The muskmelon is distinguished by its netted skin and strong scent. Its European counterpart – the true cantaloupe – has ribbed pale green skin and looks very different from our cantaloupe.
- Cantaloupe are the most popular melon in the United States!
Learn more at CA Cantaloupes
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