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Summertime is almost here, and many of us are looking forward to cookouts and other social events teeming with delicious melons of all varieties. We all know the amazing nutritional value of melons, but here are a few interesting tidbits to share while chowing down at your next party or picnic.
ALAMY
Yubari King melons are the most expensive melons in the world. They are known for a uniquely sweet flavor and grow only in a small region of Japan, making them highly coveted. Two of these melons recently sold for more than $20,000!
Watermelons have remained popular for thousands of years. Pictures of them can even be seen in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics.
Stainless steel and plastic water bottles are all the rage now, but early explorers used watermelons as canteens.
The cantaloupe was first cultivated in the 1700s, in the Italian papal village of Cantalup.
To pick the perfect watermelon, experts recommend flipping it over to make sure that the underside has a creamy yellow spot from sitting on the ground to ripen in the sun.
We typically picture the fleh of a honeydew melon as green, but there is also an orange variety, aka the temptation melon.
So while enjoying these antioxidant-filled treats this summer, know that you are also eating fruit with a rich and eclectic history.
