Choose honeydew melons that are heavy for their size and well shaped. A creamy yellow rind, light green, juicy flesh, and a slightly soft blossom end characterize ripe honeydew melons. Honeydews are picked while they are still firm which is characterized by a whiter rind color with slight green tinge and a hard blossom end. (However, all honeydew melons should have a soluble solids content of 10% before they are harvested to ensure good flavor.) Holding at room temperature may soften firm melons.
Storing and Handling
Temperature/humidity recommendations for short-term
storage of seven days or less:
60-65 degrees F/16-18 degrees C
85-95% relative humidity
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PMA Fresh Produce Manual
Handling Tips
Handle ripe honeydew melons with care to avoid bruising. Do not drop shipping containers on the floor.
Troubleshooting
Pitted rind; reddish-tan discoloration of flesh; failure to ripen:
These are indications of chill injury. To prevent chill injury, do not store honeydews below 45 degrees F/7 degrees C.
Decay; flesh softening; off flavor:
This may be an indication of age or product that was held for an extended period of time. These symptoms may not appear until after honeydew is taken out of storage and held at room temperature. For best quality, inspect honeydews carefully and use ripe product shortly after receiving.
Bruising:
Honeydew melons may bruise if handled roughly. Handle melons with care; do not drop shipping containers on the floor.
Variety/Type Descriptions
Honeydew melons are characterized by a large, round shape and smooth, creamy yellow rind. Flesh is light green, juicy, and sweet. Orange-fleshed honeydew is also available; flavor is similar to cantaloupe
Common Packaging
30-lb. cartons
2/3-cartons
Grades
U.S. No. 1
U.S. Commercial
U.S. No. 2
Storing Tips
Riper honeydew melons may be stored at 45-50 degrees F/7-10 degrees C. Exposing firm honeydew melons to ethylene gas can help promote softening and color change from green to creamy yellow.
