Managing Ripening

Other fruits, such as peaches, bananas, and tomatoes, can ripen even after harvesting, provided they were properly mature when picked and are held under the proper conditions. A few fruits actually benefit from being picked underripe and ripened off the plant: Pears become mealy and mushy if ripened on the tree, while avocados ripen only after they are harvested. These fruits require careful managing to ensure they are at their proper stage of ripeness when served. Following the guidelines will help you serve fruit at its proper ripeness and avoid waste.