Unfortunately, this line of thinking won’t fair you well in the world of food safety.
When you cut into a melon like cantaloupe, you’re transferring everything from the outside rind (this includes the bacteria) into the fruity flesh you eat on the inside. Unless you plan on cooking the fruit to the appropriate temperature before consuming, you run the risk of becoming sick with a foodborne illness from whatever was on the rind.
So, keep this in mind when eating your fruits and vegetables. Regardless if you eat the outside layer or not— wash it!
This goes for all items, including bananas, watermelon, honey dew melon, potatoes, carrots, cabbage, pomegranate, you name it.
Too prevent bacteria from making you sick when enjoying fruits and vegetables, The Partnership for Food Safety Education has a list of Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill tips for enjoying safer fresh fruits and vegetables just in time for summer. Learn and practice these tips for a happy, healthy season.