Within what timeframe must cut muskmelon pieces be refrigerated after slicing?

Within two hours of cutting

Proper handling and storage of cut fruit are crucial to maintaining quality and preventing bacterial growth, especially since the interior flesh is now exposed. The best practice mandates that any remaining pieces of cut muskmelon must be placed into refrigeration promptly. Specifically, the guideline suggests that these cut pieces should be stored within a maximum window of two hours following the initial cutting of the melon. For optimal preservation, these portions should be placed into a clean, sealed, and shallow container. It is further advised that the storage method should allow for air circulation around the fruit pieces, rather than submerging them in liquid, which can promote bacterial proliferation in standing water.