CALIFORNIA GROWN
Here in the Golden State we’re proud to say we’re the biggest melon producers in the United States, thanks to our fertile landscapes in the Southern Desert Area and the San Joaquin Valley. Today we are sharing our best insider tips on choosing, preparing, and savoring these flavorful melons. And we’re certainly not skipping over those impressive cantaloupe nutrients that greatly boost your meals.
Welcome to California, home to the best and juiciest cantaloupes in the country!
Ever wondered how to select the ripest, sweetest cantaloupe from the bunch? We’ve got ya covered. A ripe cantaloupe will exhibit a slightly softer blossom end that may begin to crack. Look for that net-like pattern climbing up the stem and that the green skin has become creamy in color. These indicators are the melon’s way of saying, “I’m ripe, delicious, and ready for you to enjoy!”
Once your perfect cantaloupe is home, following safe handling and storing guidelines is crucial. California cantaloupe farmers pride themselves on providing the safest melons in the world, with rigorous food safety programs requiring over 300 checkpoints in fields and cooling facilities. Nevertheless, ensuring food safety is a shared responsibility between the producers and consumers.
Craving a healthy snack? Look no further than California cantaloupes! They’re not just tasty but also chock full of nutrients — all at just 50 calories per cup. These melons are superstars when it comes to vitamins. You’ll get a good dose of Vitamins A and C, which do more than just ward off colds. They’re also antioxidants that help your body fight off diseases like heart disease and cancer.
And the goodness doesn’t stop there. Inside these delicious fruits are powerful antioxidants, like lutein and zeaxanthin, which look after your eyes as you age and keep your brain working optimally. Another antioxidant, beta-cryptoxanthin, does even more, helping to keep you safe from some forms of cancer and degenerative diseases. Plus, it could help slow down the onset of osteoporosis.