Watermelon: what it contains and why it matters
Watermelon is a large summer fruit (tarbooz). This page lists its nutritional content from published sources and explains which lab parameters it relates to.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-04
Nutritional content of watermelon
Per 100 g edible portion, from published composition data.
| Nutrient | Per 100 g | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | 30 kcal | USDA |
| Water | 91.45 g | USDA |
| Carbohydrate | 7.55 g | USDA |
| Protein | 0.61 g | USDA |
| Total lipid (fat) | 0.15 g | USDA |
| Dietary fiber | 0.4 g | USDA |
| Potassium | 112 mg | USDA |
| Vitamin C | 8.1 mg | USDA |
| Vitamin A | 28 µg | USDA |
| Lycopene | 4532 µg | USDA |
Which lab parameters does watermelon relate to?
Vitamin C
Vitamin C supports the immune system and helps the body absorb non-heme iron from plant foods [WHO].
Vitamin A
Vitamin A supports vision, the immune system and the health of skin [WHO].
Potassium
Potassium helps nerves and muscles work and helps balance the body's fluids [WHO].
Vegetarian and dietary notes
Watermelon is an unprocessed botanical fruit and is completely plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets.
Frequently asked questions
What is the water content of watermelon?
Watermelon consists of 91.45 g of water per 100 g of edible portion [USDA], which accounts for the vast majority of its total mass.
What vitamins are found in watermelon?
Per 100 g, raw watermelon contains 8.1 mg of vitamin C and 28 µg of vitamin A [USDA]. Vitamin C participates in enzymatic reactions such as collagen biosynthesis, and vitamin A is required for the formation of rhodopsin in the retina.
How much carbohydrate and sugar is in watermelon?
A 100 g portion provides 7.55 g of total carbohydrates, which includes 6.2 g of total sugars and 0.4 g of dietary fiber [USDA].
What is the lycopene content of watermelon?
Raw red watermelon provides 4532 µg of lycopene per 100 g [USDA]. Lycopene is an acyclic carotenoid responsible for the red pigmentation of the fruit flesh.
How much potassium does watermelon provide?
Watermelon contains 112 mg of potassium per 100 g [USDA]. Potassium serves as the primary intracellular cation involved in resting membrane potential regulation and cellular osmotic balance.
Sources
- USDA — USDA FoodData Central, Agricultural Research Service. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/
- WHO — World Health Organization — nutrition fact sheets. https://www.who.int/