30+ -Watermelon

The watermelon has become a symbol for Palestine because it shares the same red, black, white and green colours of the Palestinian flag, which was banned after the 1967 war. Watermelon was first cultivated in north-west Africa, likely because of its high water content. Early explorers used hollowed out watermelons as water canteens.

The Japanese have cultivated watermelons in boxes to give them a square shape. These are most often used decoratively and are expensive.

Watermelons are good sources of vitamins A, C, and B6, choline, potassium, phosphorous and magnesium. They contain phytonutrients that are antioxidant and support cardiovascular and eye health.

Its high-water content means it is very refreshing and so it is most often eaten as it is or turned into drinks or lollies. It can also be added to salads or even grilled and eaten as watermelon 'tuna steaks.'