Agriculture ministry addresses watermelon illness rumors in Jordan

In recent days, social media platforms in Jordan have witnessed widespread debate following reports from citizens who said they experienced illness after eating watermelon. The situation sparked questions about the quality of this popular summer fruit currently available in local markets.

In an official statement, Lawrence Al-Majali, spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture, denied any health concerns related to the quality of Jordanian watermelon, describing the rumors as “an annual hoax that resurfaces at the start of every season.”

Majali stated that “Jordanian watermelon is considered one of the best agricultural products in the region, known for its high quality and high demand across regional markets.” He noted that since the fruit grows in direct contact with soil, its surface may carry bacteria, especially when organic fertilizers are used.

He explained that in some cases, the illness is caused by not washing the fruit properly. Cutting into an unwashed watermelon allows bacteria on the surface to enter the flesh via the knife, which can later result in food poisoning or feelings of nausea.

He also pointed out that prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or improper storage, especially when watermelons are sold from cars or open-air markets without refrigeration, can cause spoilage. He added that the Ministry of Agriculture immediately investigates any such reports.

For his part, engineer Mahmoud Al-Awran, Director General of the Farmers’ Union, clarified that the use of growth regulators by farmers does not pose a health risk. He emphasized that these substances are used only at the early stages of growth to help blossoms set fruit and are not applied during the production phase.

As for pesticides, Awran stressed that they are used under strict supervision from the Ministry of Agriculture, taking into account the “safety interval,” which does not exceed 48 hours before harvest, minimizing any harmful effects on consumer health.

Providing a medical perspective, Dr. Wasim Hammoudeh, an internal medicine consultant, explained that cases of diarrhea linked to watermelon may be caused by overconsumption. He noted that summer fruits like watermelon contain natural sugars such as fructose and sorbitol, which can lead to loose stools when eaten in excess.

Dr. Hammoudeh added that another potential cause of illness is contamination from the knife used to cut the fruit, especially if the outer surface was not washed properly, allowing bacteria to transfer from the rind to the inner flesh.

He concluded by emphasizing that “watermelon is naturally sealed and nothing, not even air, enters it. But neglecting to wash it before cutting or storing it improperly is the main reason behind the occasional health issues.”

Health and official agencies recommend that consumers thoroughly wash watermelon before cutting, avoid consuming it in large quantities at once, and ensure they buy it from trusted sources that follow proper storage practices.