Can You Vacuum Seal Watermelon?

on June 27, 2023

Have you ever pondered whether a watermelon could be vacuum-sealed? A watermelon, you read that right. Although vacuum sealing is frequently used to preserve food and increase shelf life, watermelon is not frequently subjected to this technique. Then, is it feasible?

A watermelon can definitely be vacuum sealed! Vacuum sealing can be used to preserve the freshness and increase the shelf life of a variety of items, including fruits like watermelons, despite the fact that it may appear strange. Vacuum sealing makes a tight seal that helps prevent spoilage and delays the decay process by removing the air from the packaging. It’s crucial to remember that vacuum sealing a watermelon might change its texture and perhaps impact its flavour.

The watermelon may be compressed during the sealing process, becoming denser and having a different mouthfeel. Additionally, due to the lack of air, some individuals believe that watermelon that has been vacuum-sealed may have a somewhat distinct flavour. Therefore, even if vacuum sealing a watermelon is technically conceivable, it’s important to think about the potential flavour and texture changes before deciding to give it a try.

Can vacuum-sealed watermelon be stored for a longer period?

Comparatively to keeping it unsealed, vacuum-sealing watermelon can indeed increase its storage life. Vacuum sealing slows down the rotting process and prevents the growth of germs, which can hasten the degradation of the fruit. This is done by taking the air out of the package.

Uncut, whole watermelons normally keep for one to two weeks at ambient temperature, but when vacuum-sealed and kept in the refrigerator, they can keep for up to two to three weeks.

It’s crucial to remember that the time spent in storage might vary based on a number of variables, including how ripe the watermelon was prior to vacuum sealing, the effectiveness of the seal, and the storage environment. Even though the watermelon has been vacuum-sealed, it is still advisable to inspect it for any symptoms of deterioration, such as mould or an odd smell, before eating it.

It’s important to note that the watermelon’s storage life drastically diminishes after cutting. Cut watermelon that has been vacuum-sealed can keep in the fridge for up to five to seven days as opposed to just a few days when it hasn’t been.

Can watermelon be frozen?

Watermelon can indeed be frozen. Even when it’s out of season, you may still enjoy the pleasant flavour of watermelon by freezing it. How to freeze watermelon is as follows:

Cut the watermelon: Start by slicing or chopping the watermelon into the desired shapes. If required, get rid of any seeds.

Prepare a tray: Use parchment paper to cover a baking sheet or tray to keep the watermelon from sticking.
Arrange the watermelon: Make sure the watermelon chunks are not touching when you arrange them on the tray. They won’t freeze into a clump as a result of this.
Freeze the watermelon: Place the tray in the freezer and wait until the watermelon chunks are totally solid. Depending on the size and thickness of the pieces, this process often takes a few hours.

Transfer to containers: Transfer the frozen watermelon chunks to freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. In order to reduce the chance of freezer burn, take out as much air as you can from the packing.
Label and date: For easy reference, mark the bags or containers with the contents and the date of freezing.

There are many uses for frozen watermelon. It can be used in smoothies to add flavour or in frozen desserts like sorbets and granitas as a cool snack straight from the freezer. When kept in good condition, frozen watermelon can stay in the freezer for 6 to 8 months, though over time its quality may deteriorate.

What are some alternative methods for preserving watermelon?

Here are a few alternatives if vacuum sealing is not your prefered method of food preservation or if you’re seeking for other ways to preserve watermelon:

Refrigeration: A quick and efficient approach to increase the shelf life of watermelon is to store it in the refrigerator. To keep the watermelon fresh, place it uncut in a sealed container or the crisper drawer. In the refrigerator, it normally keeps for one to two weeks.
Dehydrating: Watermelon may be preserved for a long time by dehydrating it to eliminate the moisture. Slice the watermelon into thin slices and dehydrate them in a dehydrator or in a low oven setting until they are leathery and dry. The dried watermelon should be kept in an airtight container. Watermelon that has been dehydrated can be rehydrated and used to different recipes, trail mix, or eaten as a snack.

Watermelon Jam or Preserves: Making jam or preserves out of watermelon is another method of preserving it. The watermelon is pureed, then simmered with sugar and lemon juice until it reaches a thick consistency. Clean jars, add jam, seal them, and process them in a water bath canner after they have been sterilised. Using this technique, you can take advantage of watermelon flavours all year long.

Remember that preserved watermelon may have a somewhat different flavour and texture than fresh watermelon, but these techniques can help you continue to enjoy this refreshing fruit after its best season.