Temperature is key to preserving watermelon.

The exposure to oxygen causes fruits to break down once cut, adds Edwards.

Temperature dictates how long cut watermelon lasts, so its important it be stored in the refrigerator.

sliced watermelon

TheFood and Drug Administrationrecommends thorough washing of all fruit and vegetables using cold running water during preparation.

Once fruits and vegetables are cut they should be refrigerated in covered containers or frozen in plastic freezer containers.

Any watermelon that has visible mold should be thrown away.

watermelon chunks