Orange Honeydews, Cantaloupes Are Packed With Healthful Beta-Carotenes

Researchers at the USDA say that orange honeydew and cantaloupe melons are both rich in beta-carotene, the precursor compound of vitamin A, which is involved in immune function, vision, reproduction, and cellular communication. People in many parts of the world are deficient in vitamin A and lack access to supplements. The researchers said the beta-carotene found in orange-fleshed honeydews and cantaloupes provides a solution to vitamin A deficiency , because it is as readily bioavailable as the beta-carotene found in carrots.