Manual “X-ray” Inspection of Watermelons: A Lucrative Summer Job
As summer approaches, the unique profession of manually “X-raying” watermelons to assess their quality is in high demand. Contrary to what one might assume, this job requires a comprehensive set of skills, knowledge, and experience. Experts in this field can earn impressive incomes of up to 35 million VND (over $1,500) per month.
Image: CCTV2
During the hot summer months, watermelons are a popular choice for cooling off, and consumers’ strong demand has turned “watermelon inspectors” into sought-after professionals.
In the early morning hours, as early as 6 a.m., the watermelon market in Nan Wang Dian Town, Ding Dao District, He Zhe City, Shandong Province, China, comes alive. Traders from far and wide gather to select the finest watermelons and distribute them to local markets.
Image: CCTV2
Traders will coordinate with watermelon quality inspectors to identify the sweetest and most flavorful fruits. According to a trader from Zhejiang, after expert inspection, up to 95% of the watermelons meet the quality standards.
Ma Qi, with five years of experience in watermelon quality inspection, shared that she can swiftly assess the ripeness, sweetness, and flavor of watermelons with a few simple techniques, without having to cut open the fruit. By observing the shape, tapping, and listening to the echo, inspectors like Ma Qi have mastered the “look, touch, and listen” skill set to determine the quality of watermelons within 2-3 seconds. They are like mobile X-ray machines, providing an accurate assessment of the fruit’s interior without the need for cutting.
During the summer, these experts become highly valued by traders in watermelon-producing regions. Most of them can earn over 10,000 CNY (approximately 35 million VND) per month during this peak season.
Sources: Hunan News, CCTV2
