A rejection shall only be based on those melons in which the defect occurs in the edible portion, and particularly not based on outside indications such as bumps, welts, or off-color. To determine that the edible portion is damaged to the extent that the melon is rejectable, cut the melon in any direction, but there must be a distinct brown color or decay in the edible flesh and it must be a realistic amount. If there are outside indications of damage from rind rot, cut the melon through these welts or spots; it may also be necessary to cut the melon lengthwise, or peel the rind off the melon in such a way that it makes the line between the edible flesh and the rind more visible.
Cal. Code Regs. Tit. 3, § 1442.13