Albina Yermolenkova, a dietitian and specialist in weight management and eating behavior, warned Russians about the risk of developing cancer from eating watermelons.
According to the expert, gourds are sometimes fed with nitrogenous fertilizers for rapid maturation, which harm the human body and provoke the oncology.
Once in the gastrointestinal tract, fertilizers are converted into harmful compounds. Nitrites can turn into a harmful state even in the watermelon itself if it is not stored properly.
“Blood damage can lead to a lack of oxygen in the tissues, which is especially bad for children and for people suffering from cardiovascular diseases.”
The content of nitrates https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nitrate in watermelon is indicated by yellow streaks or whitish seals resembling cotton wool. In addition, the use of chemicals in the cultivation of berries is indicated by the too bright color of the pulp and the glossy surface of the peel. If a watermelon has a yellow spot on the peel, then it is ripe in natural conditions.
The nutritionist stressed that the content of nitrates in Russian vegetables and fruits is regulated by the EU technical regulation. The minimum allowable rate of nitrates is 60 micrograms per kilogram, which sellers of berries must confirm with relevant documents.