What defines a fresh watermelon for buyers?

A fresh watermelon is identified as the edible fruit of Citrullus lanatus, classified as a fresh fruit under HS code 080711.

How should watermelons be stored to maintain quality?

Watermelons should be kept in a cool, well‑ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, and consumed within a few days for optimal freshness.

Are watermelon seeds edible and nutritionally valuable?

Yes, watermelon seeds are edible and provide protein, fat, iron, and zinc, and are commonly consumed in various regions.

Watermelon

Watermelon is a fresh fruit classified as edible watermelons. It is harvested and sold as a fresh commodity.

Prices, specifications and international trade for watermelon under HS 080711.

Watermelon Price

$609USD/t

Published reference · Jul 1, 2026

Watermelon Historical Unit Values

Watermelon is quoted in USD/t at ESP. Historical customs values may differ from the headline reference.

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Watermelon Exports and Imports

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Spain led reported watermelon exports in 2025, at $659M.

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Watermelon Specifications and Quality

Watermelon grading factors include Size/Weight, Rind Condition, and Flesh Color.

Grading Factors

Quality assessment for watermelon considers Size/Weight, Rind Condition, and Flesh Color.

Size/Weight
Buyers assess the average weight of the watermelon to ensure it meets market size categories.
Rind Condition
The rind must be smooth, free of cracks, bruises, or soft spots.
Flesh Color
The interior flesh should be uniformly red or pink without green or white streaks.

Typical Specification Ranges

Watermelon specifications record average weight, soluble solids (brix). These are typical ranges, not guarantees for an individual lot.

Average Weight	5.00–15 kg
Soluble Solids (Brix)	8.00–12 °Brix

Common Defects

Recorded defects for watermelon include Rind Cracks, Decay, and Insect Damage.

Rind Cracks
Visible splits or cracks in the rind that can lead to decay.
Decay
Areas of soft, mushy tissue indicating fungal or bacterial infection.
Insect Damage
Evidence of insect entry points or feeding marks on the rind.

Certifications

Certifications documented for watermelon include USDA Grade, GlobalGAP, and Organic. Their applicability depends on the individual product and shipment.

USDA Grade
Official USDA grading system that classifies watermelons by size, rind condition, and flesh quality.
GlobalGAP
Good Agricultural Practices certification ensuring food safety and sustainability.
Organic
Certification indicating the watermelon was grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers.

Watermelon Facts and HS Code

Watermelon belongs to fresh fruit within produce, nuts, spices and food ingredients. Its customs classification covers HS 080711.

Watermelon HS Code

Product type	Raw
Form	Fresh
Position in the chain	Primary
Category	Fresh fruit — Produce, nuts, spices and food ingredients
HS codes	080711
Quoted in	USD/t
Reference location	ESP

Production & Handling

Watermelon handling information covers its fresh form.

Production and Storage

Perishability	High
Temperature regime	Ambient

Packaging

Typical watermelon packaging includes Bulk (Loose), Net Bag, and Cardboard Box.

Bulk (Loose)
Watermelons are often shipped without individual packaging, stacked on pallets.
Net Bag
A lightweight net bag may be used for smaller shipments to protect the fruit.
Cardboard Box
Standard cardboard boxes can be employed for retail display and transport.

Uses & Risks

Watermelon uses, related products and documented risks.

Uses and Related Commodities

Leading origins	Algeria, Brazil, China, India, Iran, Russia, Senegal, Türkiye, United States, Uzbekistan

Sourcing risks

Risk	Category	Severity	Mitigation
Salmonella contamination Food safetyHigh Past outbreaks linked to sliced watermelon imported from Brazil indicate risk of Salmonella infection.	Food safety	High	Implement strict hygiene and testing protocols during processing and handling.
Post‑harvest fungal rot (anthracnose) DiseaseMedium Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum spp. can cause rind decay and internal pulp breakdown after harvest.	Disease	Medium	Select disease‑free fruit, store at ~10 °C, and avoid ethylene exposure; no post‑harvest fungicides are available.

Watermelon Questions

What defines a fresh watermelon for buyers?: A fresh watermelon is identified as the edible fruit of Citrullus lanatus, classified as a fresh fruit under HS code 080711.
How should watermelons be stored to maintain quality?: Watermelons should be kept in a cool, well‑ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, and consumed within a few days for optimal freshness.
Are watermelon seeds edible and nutritionally valuable?: Yes, watermelon seeds are edible and provide protein, fat, iron, and zinc, and are commonly consumed in various regions.