Today, we re looking at this issue starting at ground level, with cantaloupes, honeydews and watermelons. They grow on the ground and are exposed to dirt. There have been recent disease outbreaks, particularly in the Western states. Our suppliers use growing practices that diminish the chance of contamination. For instance, the melons are grown on mounded trenches, which keeps them out of the dirt, minimizing ground contact.
Growers also use straw on the mounds to further reduce contact with the soil.
In addition, fertilizers are used instead of animal manure. These actions significantly reduce the likelihood of bacterial contamination. But as with most things, there are no guarantees. Therefore melons should be thoroughly washed before being cut. But cut to the chase in order to get to that sweet reward, your knife must slice the outer skin and proceed directly through the edible fruit.