Muskmelon

Cucumis melo

Muskmelon is a nutrient-dense melon superfruit with exceptional vitamin A (202% DV per 100g), outstanding vitamin C (61% DV per 100g), and remarkable antioxidant profile with potent carotenoids and polyphenols. Also known as cantaloupe, netted melon, or Persian melon, muskmelon delivers comprehensive hydration benefits with 90% water content and exceptional nutrient density. At 34 calories per 100g with excellent fiber (9% DV), excellent potassium (8% DV), and exceptional beta-carotene concentration, muskmelon is prized in contemporary wellness practices, nutrition science, and comprehensive health optimization applications worldwide. Perfect for fresh snacking, summer hydration, digestive support, and antioxidant wellness.

Calories

0.9g

Fiber

61%

Vitamin C

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Muskmelon - Main View

Nutrition Facts

Calories

per 100g

Carbs

8.16g

per 100g

Protein

0.84g

per 100g

Fiber

0.9g

per 100g

Sugar

7.89g

per 100g

Fat

0.19g

per 100g

💊Vitamins

Per 100g

Vitamin A

68% DV

3382 IU

Exceptional eye health, vision support, skin wellness, immune function, cellular protection

Vitamin C

61% DV

36.7 mg

Immune support, collagen synthesis, antioxidant protection, wound healing, comprehensive wellness

Folate (B9)

8% DV

33 mcg

Cell division, DNA synthesis, neurological health, methylation support

Pantothenic Acid (B5)

2% DV

0.105 mg

Energy metabolism, hormone production, stress management, comprehensive wellness

⚡Minerals

Per 100g

Potassium

8% DV

267 mg

Heart health, blood pressure regulation, muscle function, electrolyte balance, cardiovascular wellness

Magnesium

3% DV

12 mg

Muscle relaxation, energy metabolism, bone health, nervous system support

Manganese

1% DV

0.041 mg

Bone health, metabolism regulation, antioxidant enzyme production

Copper

2% DV

0.041 mg

Iron metabolism, immune function, bone formation

🛡️Antioxidants

Beta-CaroteneVitamin CLuteinZeaxanthinPolyphenolsFlavonoidsPhenolic Acids

🌿Phytonutrients

Beta-Carotene - exceptional carotenoid providing outstanding antioxidant protection, eye health support, and cellular defense against age-related degenerationVitamin C - potent antioxidant supporting immune function, collagen synthesis, wound healing, and comprehensive oxidative stress reductionLutein and Zeaxanthin - exceptional carotenoids protecting eye health, supporting vision, and providing comprehensive macular protectionPolyphenols - plant compounds supporting antioxidant protection, inflammation reduction, and comprehensive cellular wellness

📊Glycemic Index

Per Serving

Nutrition breakdown for one serving

📏

Serving Size

100g raw fresh muskmelon flesh

Calories

34kcal

Breakdown

Carbs

8.16g

Fiber

0.9g

3% DV

Sugar

7.89g

Protein

0.84g

Fat

0.19g

Vitamin C

💊

36.7mg

61% DV

Potassium

⚡

267mg

8% DV

Health Benefits

Exceptional vitamin A (202% DV per 100g from beta-carotene) provides outstanding eye health support, vision protection, and age-related degeneration prevention

Exceptional vitamin C (61% DV per 100g) supports immune function, collagen synthesis, and comprehensive antioxidant protection

Exceptional water content (90%) supports hydration, electrolyte balance, and comprehensive physiological function

Excellent potassium (8% DV per 100g) supports heart health, blood pressure regulation, and cardiovascular wellness

Exceptional carotenoid profile (lutein, zeaxanthin) provides comprehensive eye health and macular degeneration prevention

Excellent folate (8% DV per 100g) supports cell division, DNA synthesis, and neurological health

Exceptional antioxidant profile provides comprehensive oxidative stress reduction and cellular protection

Very low calorie density (34 calories per 100g) supports healthy weight management and comprehensive wellness

Excellent fiber (9% DV per 100g) supports digestive health, gut microbiome wellness, and healthy satiety

Very low fat and cholesterol content supports optimal cardiovascular health and comprehensive wellness

Origin & Distribution

Native Region

Persia (modern-day Iran and surrounding regions)

Global Presence

Worldwide

United States

India

China

Spain

Brazil

Mediterranean regions

tropical and subtropical regions

Top Producers

ChinaTurkeyUnited StatesSpainBrazil

Historical Background

Muskmelon (Cucumis melo) is believed to be native to Persia with archaeological evidence of cultivation dating back 4,000 years. The melon reached Egypt around 2400 BCE and spread throughout Mediterranean regions via ancient trade routes. 'Muskmelon' name derives from the musky aroma when ripe. Medieval European gardens cultivated melons extensively, leading to development of modern varieties. The melon arrived in North America with European colonists in the 1600s. Today, muskmelon is cultivated worldwide in tropical and subtropical regions, with China being the largest producer. Muskmelon remains prized for its exceptional flavor, nutritional density, and hydrating properties in contemporary wellness applications.

Peak Season

Best Time to Enjoy

Peak harvest May-September

3 Varieties Available

Explore Varieties

Each variety offers unique flavors, textures, and culinary applications

American Orange Muskmelon

United States (commercial standard)

Color

Orange flesh, beige netted exterior

Taste Profile

Sweet, aromatic, musky with balanced flavor

Best For

Fresh snacking, fruit salads, smoothies, summer applications

Charentais Melon

France (heritage variety)

Color

Orange flesh, distinctive segmented exterior

Taste Profile

Exceptionally sweet, aromatic, refined flavor

Best For

Fine dining, gourmet applications, premium snacking

Galia Melon

Israel (modern hybrid variety)

Color

Pale green flesh, distinctive netted exterior

Taste Profile

Very sweet, honeyed with exotic aroma

Best For

Contemporary cuisine, fruit platters, specialty applications

Storage & Selection Guide

Keep your fruit fresh and delicious for longer

How to Choose the Perfect Fruit

Select muskmelons with visible netting pattern covering the exterior

Choose melons that feel heavy for their size indicating juice content

Look for uniform beige or tan colored netting without blemishes

Press gently near stem end - should yield slightly when ripe

Smell the blossom end - should have sweet, musky aroma when ripe

Avoid soft spots, cracks, or areas indicating overripeness

Proper Storage Methods

Store whole muskmelons at room temperature until fully ripe

Once ripe, refrigerate whole melon for 5-7 days

Keep in refrigerator in sealed container after cutting to prevent odor transfer

Store cut muskmelon wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture

Muskmelon ripens at room temperature after harvesting

Best consumed within 1 week of ripening for optimal flavor and nutrition

Shelf Life Guide

Refrigerated

1 week

Average Shelf Life

7 days

Freezing Instructions

Preserve freshness for months

2-3 months

Cut muskmelon into cubes or balls before freezing

Freeze on baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags

Frozen muskmelon maintains quality for 3-4 months

Thaw in refrigerator before consuming as fresh fruit

Frozen muskmelon ideal for smoothies and cooked applications

Flash-freeze to preserve shape and texture for best results

Pro Tip

Label frozen items with the date to track freshness. Most fruits maintain quality for 2-3 months when properly frozen. For best results, use airtight containers or freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Culinary Journey

Discover delicious possibilities

Common Uses

Fresh snacking for daily hydration and vitamin A support

Fruit salads and refreshing summer applications

Smoothies and nutritional beverages

Desserts and fruit-based applications

Grilled muskmelon with complementary flavors

Contemporary wellness recipes

Eye health and antioxidant applications

Hydration support and summer nutrition

Perfect Pairings

Prosciutto - classic sweet-salty combination

Lime - citrus enhancement

Fresh mint - aromatic complement

Coconut - tropical flavor harmony

Blueberries - antioxidant pairing

Honey - natural sweetness

Feta cheese - savory contrast

Ginger - warming spice enhancement

Berries - complementary flavors

Popular Recipes

Fresh muskmelon snacking for daily nutrition

Cantaloupe and prosciutto appetizers

Muskmelon fruit salad preparation

Muskmelon smoothie creation

Melon sorbet and frozen applications

Grilled muskmelon with honey

Muskmelon gazpacho preparation

Wellness-focused muskmelon recipes

Refreshing Beverages

Muskmelon juice preparation

Muskmelon smoothie with yogurt

Cantaloupe and mint smoothie

Muskmelon and lime drink

Tropical muskmelon beverage

Muskmelon and coconut drink

Fresh muskmelon juice blend

Safety Information

Allergy Information:

Muskmelon allergies are relatively rare affecting less than 0.1% of population. Oral allergy syndrome in pollen-allergic individuals is more common than true muskmelon allergy.

Pesticide Concerns:

Muskmelons grown commercially may have pesticide residue. Choose organic muskmelons when available. Always wash thoroughly under running water before cutting to remove surface bacteria and residues.

Who Should Avoid:

• Individuals with oral allergy syndrome related to birch or ragweed pollen may experience mild reactions
• Those with melon seed allergies should remove seeds before consumption
• Individuals with kidney disease should monitor potassium intake
• Diabetics should account for sugar content in meal planning
• Generally safe for all other populations including children and elderly

Possible Side Effects:

•Generally very well-tolerated in normal amounts
•High sugar content may cause digestive changes if consumed in excess
•Choking hazard for very small children and elderly with reduced swallowing
•Potential contamination if not properly washed before cutting
•Safe for all age groups in appropriate portions

Preparation Safety:

• Wash muskmelon thoroughly under running water before cutting
• Sanitize cutting board and knife to prevent cross-contamination
• Remove seeds before consumption (risk of choking for some populations)
• Cut muskmelon shortly before consumption to maintain freshness
• Discard melon if soft spots or mold develop indicating contamination
• Purchase from certified, reputable suppliers ensuring complete safety

Fun Facts

Surprising trivia you'll love!

Muskmelon (Cucumis melo) is believed to be native to Persia with cultivation dating back 4,000 years

The name 'muskmelon' derives from the musky aroma it emits when fully ripe

Muskmelon is also called cantaloupe, netted melon, or Persian melon depending on region

Muskmelon contains exceptional beta-carotene for eye health at 202% DV per 100g

A single ripe muskmelon contains approximately 36.7 mg of vitamin C (61% DV)

Muskmelon is 90% water making it exceptional for summer hydration

The melon reached Egypt around 2400 BCE via ancient trade routes

Medieval European gardens extensively cultivated melons for flavor and nutrition

China is the world's largest muskmelon producer with 60%+ of global supply

Charentais melon from France is prized as a premium gourmet melon variety

Frequently Asked Questions

What is muskmelon and why is it a superfruit?

General

Muskmelon (Cucumis melo), also called cantaloupe, is a nutrient-dense melon superfruit with exceptional vitamin A (202% DV per 100g), outstanding vitamin C (61% DV per 100g), and remarkable carotenoid profile with beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Muskmelon delivers exceptional eye health and antioxidant benefits.

What are the nutritional benefits of muskmelon?

Nutrition

Muskmelon delivers exceptional vitamin A (202% DV per 100g) for eye health, exceptional vitamin C (61% DV) for immunity, excellent potassium (8% DV), excellent folate (8% DV), and exceptional carotenoid antioxidants. At 34 calories per 100g with excellent hydration (90% water) and fiber (9% DV), muskmelon provides comprehensive nutritional benefits.

Is muskmelon good for eye health?

Health

Yes, muskmelon is exceptional for eye health with exceptional beta-carotene (202% DV per 100g) converted to vitamin A for vision support. Lutein and zeaxanthin protect against age-related macular degeneration, making muskmelon ideal for comprehensive eye health.

What is the vitamin C content in muskmelon?

Nutrition

Muskmelon contains exceptional vitamin C at 36.7 mg per 100g (61% DV), supporting immune function, collagen synthesis, and comprehensive antioxidant protection. This makes muskmelon an excellent source of immune-supporting vitamin C.

Is muskmelon good for hydration?

Health

Yes, muskmelon is exceptional for hydration with 90% water content providing excellent electrolyte balance and physiological hydration. The potassium content (8% DV) supports electrolyte balance during summer activities.

How do you know when muskmelon is ripe?

Shopping

Ripe muskmelon should feel slightly soft near the stem end with gentle pressure. The exterior should have visible netting pattern, and the blossom end should emit a sweet, musky aroma. Ripe melon will have uniform coloring without green areas.

How should you store muskmelon?

Storage

Store whole unripe muskmelon at room temperature until ripe. Once ripe, refrigerate whole melon for 5-7 days. Cut muskmelon should be wrapped and refrigerated for 3-4 days. Frozen muskmelon cubes maintain quality for 3-4 months.

What are the different muskmelon varieties?

General

Popular muskmelon varieties include American Orange (sweet, aromatic), Charentais (premium French variety), and Galia (modern hybrid with greenish flesh). Each offers distinct flavor profiles and nutritional characteristics for diverse culinary applications.