Yellow Gold 48 has a thicker rind compared to the red watermelon variety, enabling a longer shelf-life and reducing potential losses from damage during transportation from farms to markets
Bayer has launched a yellow watermelon variety in the Indian market and is known as ‘Yellow Gold 48,’ under its Seminis brand of high-yielding vegetable seeds. The unique yellow watermelon has been developed from superior germplasm as part of Bayer’s global R&D efforts. The yellow watermelon variety has been commercially introduced in India following two years of local trials. With ‘Yellow Gold 48’, watermelon growers can benefit from enhanced yield potential, better disease and pest tolerance, and higher returns. For consumers used to the red variety of watermelons, the yellow variety is sure to provide a sensory delight and greater choice.
Besides the novel yellow-coloured flesh, Bayer’s yellow watermelon offers a distinct, sweet flavour. It has a thicker rind compared to the red watermelon variety, enabling a longer shelf-life and reducing potential losses from damage during transportation from farms to markets. The ‘Yellow Gold 48’ variety is best suited for cultivation from October to February and for harvest from April onwards. The yellow watermelon will be available in the market until mid-July.
Speaking about the new yellow watermelon, KE Muthu, Head of Bayer Vegetable Seeds, South Asia, said, “Yellow Gold 48 with its high yield and income potential will empower watermelon growers to diversify into new categories and meet the growing demand for exotic fruits. We are also creating market linkages for yellow watermelon growers by connecting them directly to large buyers and food retail stores.”
Currently, Bayer’s yellow watermelon is available at a price range of Rs 10 per kg in local fruit markets and select modern retail stores in Karnataka, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan. The fruit carries an external peelable sticker with the Bayer and ‘Seminis Yellow Gold 48’ logos for clear differentiation and authentication.
Bayer offers a total of five varieties of watermelons in India under the Seminis brand. Another new launch from Bayer in 2021 includes the ‘Crimson B32’ red watermelon variety which comes with fewer seeds and an oblong shape.
