Can melons really cause foodborne illness?
Melons can be a refreshing summer delight, but yes, they can cause foodborne illness. Some melons may be contaminated with salmonella organisms as they come from the field. While melons are being cut, microorganisms can be transferred from the outer surface to the inner, edible fruit where they will grow and multiply if not kept cold. Wash whole melons thoroughly with tap water before cutting. Keep cut melon pieces in the refrigerator or on ice until consumed. As an added precaution, keep whole melons in the refrigerator so they are already cold when they are cut.
