So what did watermelons originally taste and look like, and from where did they originate? The red color is probably also thanks to artificial selection, in which farmers likely favored and selectively bred red fruit. "The seeds may have been used as savory snacks from a wild watermelon," Renner said. This realization, coupled with Renner's genetic findings, begin to paint a picture of ancient Egyptians enjoying domesticated and sweet watermelons. "The ancient Nubians who lived in modern-day Sudan are often overlooked in favor of the Egyptians," Renner said.

Source: The North Africa Journal July 05, 2021 10:52 UTC