In this article, we will compare and contrast the sugar kiss melon with cantaloupe so that you can fully understand the differences between them. We will go over their physical descriptions as well as what they taste like, and how they originated in the first place. Let’s get started and learn all about these different muskmelons now! 

Comparing Sugar Kiss Melon vs Cantaloupe

Key Differences Between Sugar Kiss Melon vs Cantaloupe

There are a number of key differences between sugar kiss melons and cantaloupes. For example, sugar kiss melons and cantaloupes both belong to the same plant species, but they are different cultivars from each other. The flavor of the sugar kiss melon is more powerful and sweeter compared to the mild flavor of cantaloupe. Finally, cantaloupes are a much older variety of melon compared to the newly developed sugar kiss melon.  Let’s go over all of these differences in more detail now.

Sugar Kiss Melon vs Cantaloupe: Classification

It is difficult to know the differences between sugar kiss melons and cantaloupes upon first glance, because they are nearly identical in appearance. However, their scientific classifications are slightly different from each other, as cantaloupe is a cultivar of the Cucumis melo species, while sugar kiss melons are a hybrid creation from the same species, particularly using the hami melon. Sugar kiss melons are likely a combination of cantaloupes and hami melons.

Sugar Kiss Melon vs Cantaloupe: Description

Cantaloupes and sugar kiss melons look identical from the outside, and they continue to look similar from the inside as well. Both of these melons are beige or tan in color, covered in intricate ridges or netting on the outside of the rind. There’s a light green hint to the rind as well, with light orange fruit inside.  The center of cantaloupes and sugar kiss melons is full of seeds, but the average sugar kiss melon has fewer seeds compared to cantaloupe seeds. The main difference between these two varieties lies in their taste. The sugar kiss melon was developed as a sweeter and smoother variety compared to cantaloupe, which is mild in flavor by comparison. In addition, the rind of the sugar kiss melon is thinner compared to the thick rind of cantaloupe.

Sugar Kiss Melon vs Cantaloupe: Uses

Sugar kiss melons and cantaloupes are used interchangeably with one another, though the overall sweetness of sugar kiss melons may alter the way you use them compared to the average cantaloupe. Both varieties are eaten raw, frequently in salads or paired with cured meats. In addition, both cantaloupes and sugar kiss melons are a great source of vitamin C and vitamin A, making them a nutritious snack! 

Sugar Kiss Melon vs Cantaloupe: Origin and How to Grow

The origins of sugar kiss melons and cantaloupes is another way in which they differ. For example, sugar kiss melons were developed through seed cultivators in Taiwan and Arizona, while the cantaloupe originated somewhere in South America or Asia. When it comes to growing both of these melon varieties, they enjoy full sun and plenty of nutritious soil. Make sure they have plenty of room to grow, as sugar kiss melons and cantaloupe spread easily! 

Sugar Kiss Melon vs Cantaloupe: Age of Cultivar

The final difference between cantaloupes and sugar kiss melons is the fact that cantaloupes are significantly older than sugar kiss melons are. In fact, sugar kiss melons were developed in 2006, while cantaloupes originated sometime during the 1800s. While sugar kiss melons are the sweeter and more flavorful counterpart of cantaloupes, they are still gaining popularity and may be more difficult to find at your local grocery store.