What substances are used to color watermelon?

Question

Hello doctor,

I want to know if the color added to watermelon is safe compared to its benefits. Is watermelon safe if color is added to it? What is injected to achieve this? I know it is a fruit and should be part of a healthy diet. Does it still have the same nutrients if additives are used? Is it harmful to eat colored watermelon regularly?

Please guide.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for posting your query.

One of the most toxic dyes used in watermelon is erythrosine. This pink dye is mostly used in food coloring.

Sellers are increasingly opting to inject watermelons with chemicals and colors like Erythrosine-B (Red-B) to enhance the bright red hue of the pulp, increase shelf life, and improve sweetness.

The pink or red color of watermelon is due to its lycopene content, the same as with tomatoes. However, not all watermelons are pink or red. Many varieties have less or no lycopene, resulting in colors like yellow, orange, or creamy white.

In the Indian agricultural context, the idea of injecting watermelons with dyes is largely a myth rather than a common practice. Inspections and reports from the Food safety and standards authority of India (FSSAI) have not found substantial evidence to support the widespread use of dye injections in watermelons.

I hope this information helps you, and please reach out if you have any doubts.

Thank you.