A biryani feast followed by a serving of watermelon proved deadly for a family of four in Mumbai on Sunday. The incident was reported from the Pydhonie area, where an entire family passed away after eating biryani for dinner and some watermelon before calling it a night. They had watermelon around 1.00 am or 1.30 am, and their condition started to deteriorate around 5.00 am. They all experienced diarrhoea and nausea and eventually passed away. The mystery now remains: was it a case of accidental watermelon poisoning or something else? Abdullah Dokadia (40), his wife Nasreen Dokadia (35), and their two daughters, Ayesha (16) and Zainab (13), lost their lives, and the police are currently suspecting it to be a case of food poisoning. But can eating watermelon really kill you? Let us find out.What are the signs of watermelon poisoning?Watermelon is a popular summer fruit that people enjoy eating during the hotter months. It is 70 per cent water, highly hydrating, and also beneficial for weight loss. However, going overboard is discouraged by doctors, as overeating or consuming adulterated watermelon can lead to abdominal discomfort and digestive distress. Watermelon-related food poisoning can occur because of E. coli or salmonella infections. It can cause rapid dehydration, diarrhoea, cramps, fever, weakness, and, in extreme cases, even death.What happens when you eat too much watermelon?Dr Aarti Ullal, Physician and Diabetologist at Gleneagles Hospital, Parel, in an interaction with Health and Me, said, “Eating too much watermelon may lead to bloating, stomach discomfort, or loose motions, mainly because of its high water and natural sugar content. In some individuals, especially those with sensitive digestion, it can also cause acidity or mild cramps and disturb their peace of mind.”Dr Ullal also stated that watermelon poisoning can occur when the fruit is contaminated with pesticides, chemicals, or bacteria due to poor handling or improper storage. The symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and weakness. These are typically short-term digestive issues but may require medical attention if severe or if they interfere with daily routine. However, questions also arise regarding watermelon allergies. Watermelon allergy is rare and may cause itching in the mouth, swelling, rashes, or stomach upset soon after consumption.How to check if your watermelon is adulterated?To check if a watermelon is adulterated, look for an unnaturally bright red colour, cracks, a chemical smell, or an overly soft texture. Always wash the outer surface, as it may contain pesticides or chemicals, before cutting. Make sure to buy from trusted sources to avoid any health issues. Watermelon is safe and healthy to consume, but moderation and proper hygiene are key.Can eating a watermelon kill you? Conclusively, it can be said that eating a watermelon specifically should not cause deaths. However, if you bring the fruit home, it is advised to check it for signs of adulteration before consuming. It helps eliminate the possibility of side effects, just in case. However, if you experience food poisoning-like symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.