Fruit Ripening

Appears in

Published 2003

About

Ripening involves a series of changes that all fruits undergo as they age. Each type of fruit undergoes changes that are characteristic of that particular fruit. In general, however, fruits soften and become juicier, develop more color and flavor, and become sweeter and less sour as they ripen.

Some fruits can ripen after they are picked, or harvested. Table 16.1 is a partial list of fruits that are successfully ripened after harvest. While this list seems clear cut, in fact, not all fruits ripen equally well. For example, bananas ripen better after harvest than probably any other fruit. They improve in all attributes, including color, flavor, sweetness, and texture. Cantaloupes and papayas, on the other hand, soften and develop color, but they will not sweeten or improve in flavor once they are harvested.

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