4356 Cantaloupe/Melon

"Sweetness in every bite"

Juicy and sweet, Cantaloupe/Melon is a refreshing summer fruit with a soft, netted rind and tender, orange flesh.

Also known as: Rockmelon, Muskmelon

Botanical name: Cucumis melo

Cantaloupe/Melon illustration

Quick Facts

PLU Code

4356 (4-digit conventional)

Category & Size

Fruits › Melon › All Sizes

Origin

Originated in South Asia and Africa, now widely cultivated in the US, Europe, and Australia

Storage Temperature

32°F - 50°F (0°C - 10°C)

Shelf Life

5-7 days for whole melons, 3-5 days for pre-cut melons

Status

Approved

About Cantaloupe/Melon

Cantaloupe/Melons are typically picked when mature but not fully ripe, allowing them to ripen during transportation and storage. Special handling and storage requirements apply.

Nutrition Information

One cup of cubed cantaloupe contains approximately 50 calories, 1.3 grams of protein, 13.2 grams of carbohydrates, and 0.9 grams of fiber. The same serving size also contains 0.1 grams of fat.

Cantaloupe is rich in vitamins A and C with one cup of cubed cantaloupe providing about 100% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A and 50% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin C.

Other essential vitamins and minerals found in cantaloupe include potassium with about 12% of the recommended daily intake per cup, and folate with about 10% of the daily recommended intake per cup.

Storage & Handling

Store at consistent refrigerated temperatures to maintain high humidity and prevent ethylene exposure, which causes ripening.

Optimal Storage Conditions:
Temperature: 32°F - 50°F (0°C - 10°C)
Humidity: 80% - 90%
Packaging: Must be stored in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight. Pre-cut melons require sealed, airtight containers to prevent moisture loss.
Shelf Life: 5-7 days for whole melons, 3-5 days for pre-cut melons
Storage Notes: Monitor melons for signs of spoilage, as the rind may be sensitive to bruising. Reduce temperature to slow ripening, and avoid washing before storage to prevent moisture accumulation.

Search PLU Codes

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Tags
4356Cantaloupe/MelonCucumis meloAll SizesFruitsMelonApproved
Commodity Details
Commodity Key:
melon
Variety:
Retailer Assigned (includes pre-cut melons)
Created:
December 1999
Last Updated:
December 2023
PLU Code Reference

4-digit codes: Conventionally grown produce

5-digit codes starting with 9: Organic produce

5-digit codes starting with 8: Originally intended for GMO (rarely used)

PLU codes streamline checkout processes, improve inventory management, and provide consistency across different stores. The system was developed by the International Federation for Produce Standards (IFPS).