Facts about Cantaloupe

1. 08

   Slicing a cantaloupe crosswise through the equator rather than lengthwise creates two perfectly symmetrical halves with the seed cavity centered in each piece.

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2. 07

   Orange flesh cantaloupes contain about 3,400 international units of vitamin A per 100-gram serving, fulfilling roughly 70 percent of the daily recommended intake for adults.

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3. 06

   Ripe cantaloupes emit ethylene gas, which is why placing one in a paper bag speeds ripening by trapping the hormone around the fruit.

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4. 05

   Cantaloupes were named after Cantaloupe, Italy, where the fruit was first grown in Europe during the 15th century after arriving from Armenia.

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5. 04

   The flesh of cantaloupes contains roughly 90 percent water and provides approximately 54 calories per 100-gram serving, making them hydrating yet low-calorie fruits.

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6. 03

   California produces approximately 80 percent of the world's cantaloupe supply, with the Central Valley region harvesting over 500,000 tons annually.

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7. 02

   Netted rinds on cantaloupes form when the fruit expands faster than its skin can grow, creating natural cracks that harden into the distinctive beige webbing pattern.

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8. 01

   A single cantaloupe contains approximately 5,000 seeds and requires about 80 days from planting to harvest.

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