What two factors determine the quality of fresh fruit?

The quality of fresh fruit is determined by a complex interplay of many factors, but two stand out as crucial:

1. Maturity: This refers to the stage of development the fruit has reached. Overly ripe fruit may be bruised, mushy, or have an off-flavor. Underripe fruit may be hard, sour, or lack sweetness. Finding the perfect balance of ripeness is key.

2. Freshness: This encompasses how recently the fruit was harvested and how it was stored and handled. Fresh fruit should have a vibrant color, firm texture, and a pleasant aroma. Signs of freshness decline include wilting, discoloration, mold, and blemishes.

While these are the two most prominent factors, others contribute to fruit quality, like variety, growing conditions, and handling practices.