Bright colors and shiny surfaces in fruits and vegetables can sometimes signal chemical treatments, such as artificial ripening agents, wax coatings, or chemical dyes. To help consumers identify potentially harmful produce, experts recommend several simple tests. One method is the water test, where soaking fruits in water can reveal artificial coatings if the water changes color or develops an oily layer. For instance, placing a piece of watermelon pulp in water that turns pink or red quickly may indicate chemical treatment. Another effective method is the cotton ball rub test, where rubbing the flesh of a watermelon with a white cotton ball can show the presence of artificial coloring agents if the cotton turns bright pink or red. Additionally, consumers should check for a lack of natural aroma, unusual textures, or signs of chemical treatment like injection marks. To further reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, experts advise washing produce thoroughly under running water, soaking them in salt water or baking soda solution, and peeling certain fruits and vegetables.