Virginland Environmental Services Ltd (Trading As Grandma Foods)
Egusi ( melon seeds)
| Scientific Name | Citrullus lanatus (var. egusi) |
| Form | Whole seeds or ground powder |
| Color (Exterior) | Creamy white to light beige |
| Shape | Oval to slightly flattened |
| Size | Approximately 1-2 cm in length and 0.5-1 cm in width |
| Weight | About 10-20 grams per 100 seeds |
| Texture (Exterior) | Smooth and hard |
| Texture (Interior) | Soft and oily when chewed |
| Aroma | Mild, nutty fragrance |
| Taste | Rich, nutty flavor with a slightly sweet undertone |
| Nutritional Value | High in protein, healthy fats, vitamins (such as vitamin A and B vitamins), and minerals (like magnesium and zinc) |
| Water Content | Low, as seeds are usually dried |
| Harvest Time | Typically harvested 90-120 days after planting, when the fruit matures and dries out |
| Growing Regions | Commonly grown in West and Central Africa, particularly in Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon |
| Temperature Tolerance | Thrives in warm climates with temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) |
| Shelf Life | Can be stored for up to 1 year in a cool, dry place; ground seeds have a shorter shelf life of 3-6 months |