The Watermelon Craze in China: How 70% of the World’s Watermelons are Consumed by the Chinese

In a country with a population of over 1.4 billion, it might come as a surprise that China consumes a staggering 70% of the world’s watermelons. This juicy, refreshing fruit has become a summertime staple for the Chinese, but it wasn’t always so readily available.

The Evolution of Watermelon Consumption in China

In the 1950s and 1960s, watermelons were considered a luxury item in China. The country’s watermelon production was limited, with an annual output of only 4-6 million tons, less than one-tenth of the current production. Even in the most affluent cities like Shanghai, purchasing a watermelon was a challenge. People with a fever of 38.5°C or higher were given priority to buy watermelons, as they were believed to have medicinal properties.

As China underwent economic reforms and opened up to the world in the 1970s and 1980s, watermelon production and consumption began to increase. By the mid-1980s, the annual output had reached 12 million tons, but watermelons were still rationed and purchased using tickets.

The Watermelon Revolution

The year 1984 marked a turning point in China’s watermelon history. The government encouraged farmers to freely cultivate and sell watermelons, making it a means for them to improve their livelihoods. In the same year, “Melon Academician” Wu Mingzhu discovered a particularly delicious watermelon variety in an experimental field in Xinjiang. This variety, named “8424,” became a nationwide sensation, known for its crisp and sweet taste.

Thanks to advancements in transportation and cultivation techniques, China has now achieved watermelon freedom in terms of time, space, quantity, and variety. Watermelon cultivation spans the entire country and all four seasons, with an annual output of 60-80 million tons. In 2018, Henan Province alone contributed 13 million tons, meaning that one in every five watermelons in China comes from Henan.

A Watermelon for Every Taste

China boasts over 2,000 registered watermelon varieties, catering to every preference imaginable. From red to yellow flesh, seeded to seedless, and green to patterned rinds, one could eat a different watermelon every day for three years without repetition. Each region in China has its own representative watermelon variety, such as the Jingxin in North China, the Hansha in the Northwest, and the Teixiaofeng in the South.

The Impact of Watermelons on Chinese Health and Culture

The increased availability and affordability of watermelons have contributed to a more balanced diet for the Chinese population. Watermelons are not only delicious but also rich in dietary fiber, potassium, and vitamin C. Studies have shown that consuming fresh fruits and vegetables can improve gut health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and all-cause mortality.

Watermelons have also become deeply ingrained in Chinese culture, often associated with family gatherings, reunions, and sharing. They serve as a symbol of togetherness and a sweet ending to any celebration.

Netizens’ Perspectives on Watermelon Consumption

Chinese netizens have shared their memories and experiences related to watermelons. Some reminisce about buying watermelons in sacks during their childhood, while others express concern over the rising prices in recent years. Despite the price increases, watermelons remain a beloved fruit among the Chinese.

As China continues to embrace its love for watermelons, it is clear that this humble fruit has played a significant role in shaping the nation’s dietary habits and cultural traditions. From a once-rare luxury to a summertime necessity, watermelons have become an integral part of Chinese life, bringing joy and refreshment to millions of people every year.