How to Tell If an Eggplant Has Worms

Many people love to eat eggplant, but during the monsoon season, high humidity and frequent rain increase the chances of it becoming infested with worms. While buying eggplants from the market, many find it difficult to decide which ones are fresh and pest-free. Here are seven simple tips to help you easily determine whether an eggplant has worms or not.

According to experts, when buying eggplants, first check if there are any holes or spots on the surface. If the skin looks smooth and spotless, it is less likely to have worms inside.

Always choose eggplants that have no cracks or dark patches. Small spots or holes may indicate that the eggplant has started to rot from the inside and may contain worms. Therefore, pick only those that have shiny, clean skin.

While buying, gently press the eggplant. If it slightly sinks in, it means it’s soft and has fewer seeds. But if it feels hard and doesn’t give in, it may have more seeds or even worms. So, firmness testing is important.

When picking eggplants, lift them to check their weight. Heavier ones often have more seeds or rotten portions inside. So, choose eggplants that appear big but feel light in hand. Such eggplants are usually fresh, contain fewer seeds, and taste better.

Observe the outer skin carefully. If it appears wrinkled, dry, or dull, the eggplant is likely old. Also, if the color looks pale or faded, it’s not fresh. Go for dark, shiny, and smooth eggplants, as these are less likely to have worms or rot.

Pay attention to the stem as well. Whether round or long, all eggplants have stems. If the stem looks green, the eggplant is fresh. But if it’s dark or dry, it’s old—usually 3 to 4 days since harvested—and may have worm infestation.

Finally, consider the size of the eggplant. Always opt for smaller ones, as larger eggplants tend to have more seeds and a higher chance of worms. Smaller eggplants are not only fresher but also more delicious when cooked. So, size matters when choosing the right one.

Khaborwala/TSN