Watermelons and melons tested for nitrates in Almaty - what the results showed

Tengrinews.kz — During a briefing by the Regional Communications Service, experts detailed how to personally test melons for nitrate content and reported that no cases of food poisoning linked to watermelons or melons have been recorded in Almaty.
No dangerous watermelons or melons found in Almaty
Asel Kalykova, Deputy Director of the Almaty Department of Sanitary and Epidemiological Control, stated that since the start of the season, no food poisoning cases related to the consumption of melons and gourds have been registered in the city.
The speaker noted that the department regularly inspects watermelons and melons sold throughout the city. Specialists select random samples and send them for laboratory testing at the Almaty branch of the National Center of Expertise.

"Products are tested for compliance with the technical regulations of the Eurasian Economic Union and Kazakhstan's sanitary legislation. Primarily, experts determine nitrate levels, and if necessary, examine residual pesticides, toxic elements, as well as microbiological and radiological indicators," she noted.

According to Kalykova, no instances of exceeding permissible nitrate levels have been detected in the samples tested to date.
Is it possible to test a watermelon for nitrates yourself?
The speaker added that Almaty residents can independently check nitrate levels if they wish, using specialized portable devices available for this purpose.
She warned that the accumulation of high concentrations of these substances in the body can lead to poisoning.
Primary symptoms include:

general malaise,
fever,
vomiting,
abdominal pain.

The specialist advises seeking immediate medical attention or calling an ambulance if these signs appear.

"However, there is no cause for concern, as all products undergo inspection—either by the phytosanitary service or by our department," the Deputy Director of Almaty's Sanitary and Epidemiological Control Department reassured.

How to choose a safe watermelon
Kalykova also reminded the public to purchase watermelons and melons only at official retail locations that maintain proper storage temperatures.

"Under no circumstances should you buy melons along roadsides or at unauthorized vending sites, nor should you purchase pre-cut fruit," the expert warned.

Before purchasing, she advises carefully inspecting the fruit: it should be free of damage or cuts, as these are areas where microorganisms multiply rapidly.
In conclusion, Asel Kalykova emphasized that following simple hygiene rules and safe shopping practices will help reduce the risk of acute intestinal infections and food poisoning.
Earlier, we reported on which products require extra caution during the summer and how to mitigate the risk of food poisoning.