On a scorching summer day, few pleasures beat the crisp, juicy bite of a chilled slice of watermelon. But what happens when you finally cut into that perfectly green-rinded melon — only to find deep cracks, hollow pockets, or gaping splits running through the red flesh?
It’s not just unappetizing — it could be a warning sign.
While a misshapen interior might seem like a harmless oddity, food safety experts say it could indicate a deeper issue — and in some cases, mean the fruit shouldn’t be eaten at all.
What Is “Hollow Heart” in Watermelon?
The condition you’re seeing is commonly known as “hollow heart” — a physiological disorder that causes internal fissures, cavities, or separation of the flesh within the fruit. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with the seeds or core — it’s a structural flaw that develops as the melon grows.
It’s not mold. It’s not rot — at least not yet. But it is a red flag.
