Fresh-cut cantaloupe (Cucumis melo L.) is rapidly gaining
popularity and a large share of the produce market across the
United States. Consumption of cantaloupes in the United States was
8.5 pounds per person in 2009e2011 (Produce Marketing
Association, 2009). Cantaloupes (C melo L.) are an excellent
source of vitamin C; they also provide potassium, iron and dietary
fiber, and are an excellent source of beta-carotene (Beaulieu & Lea,
2007). The texture (firmness of the flesh), color, aroma and
sweetness of fresh-cut melon are critical factors limiting its shelf
life