Rumors questioning the safety of watermelon have affected consumer demand across Moroccan markets in recent weeks, despite official assurances that the fruit meets food safety standards. The National Office for Food Safety (ONSSA) has rejected the circulating claims, stressing that no scientific evidence supports the allegations.
Industry professionals say this year’s harvest has been abundant, contributing to stable and affordable prices. However, the spread of unverified information on social media has influenced purchasing decisions and led to a noticeable slowdown in sales.
Hicham Meknassi, a wholesaler at the Meknes fruit and vegetable market, said seasonal fruit prices have remained largely stable, with only minor fluctuations. According to him, the decline in demand is mainly the result of misinformation rather than any issue affecting product quality.
Meanwhile, El Houssine Adrardour, President of the Interprofessional Federation of Moroccan Fruit and Vegetable Producers and Exporters, stressed that the rumors have no scientific basis. He emphasized that food products are subject to continuous monitoring by the competent authorities and encouraged consumers to rely exclusively on official sources for information.
He added that Moroccan markets continue to offer plentiful supplies of high-quality watermelon at reasonable prices, expressing hope that consumer confidence and market activity will gradually recover as misinformation subsides.