- Ministry of Agriculture confirms no evidence of contamination in locally grown watermelon.
- Illnesses linked to improper washing, poor storage, or overconsumption.
- Experts advise buying from reliable vendors and practicing good hygiene.
Widespread rumors claiming that Jordanian watermelon caused illness have been firmly dismissed by the Ministry of Agriculture, labeling the concerns as unfounded and part of a yearly cycle of misinformation.
Health experts and agriculture officials agree that most reported cases of discomfort are due to unwashed produce, use of unclean knives, or improper storage conditions such as direct sunlight exposure or unrefrigerated roadside sales.
No Health Risk from Jordanian Watermelons, Say Experts and Officials
Mahmoud Al-Awran, head of the Farmers’ Union, clarified that the use of growth regulators is limited to early growth stages and poses no danger to consumers. These substances help initiate fruiting but are not applied during the harvesting phase. The union also confirmed that the use of pesticides follows strict government guidelines to ensure food safety.
Al-Majali highlighted that Jordanian agriculture maintains rigorous quality checks. The ministry responds quickly to any public concern, and there is no scientific evidence linking local watermelon crops to foodborne illnesses. Officials stress that misinformation can damage farmer livelihoods and public confidence unnecessarily.
Dr. Hammoudeh also noted that contamination frequently results from cutting tools that transfer bacteria from the outer rind into the edible flesh. Proper kitchen hygiene, including washing both the fruit and cutting instruments, is crucial to preventing illness.
In light of the annual recurrence of such rumors, the Ministry plans to launch an awareness campaign to educate citizens on food safety practices. This includes guidance on safe storage, recommended consumption limits, and choosing certified vendors. The campaign aims to build trust in local produce and reduce seasonal panic.
Jordan’s watermelon remains a safe and nutritious summer staple when handled responsibly. Authorities call on the public to focus on hygiene rather than fear.
“The greatest wealth is health.” — Virgil
This quote reinforces the message that informed choices and safe practices are key to protecting well-being.
