Pineapple Grading Standards

The fruit should be free of visible scars if it has been shortened. Pineapples are normally developed, sound, and not deformed, with a maturity, color, and clean appearance, and practically free of any foreign matter. They should be free of sunburn and internal blemishes, holes, or deep cracks. Pineapples should be free of foreign smell and taste and pest and physiological diseases. If the peduncle is present, it must be cleanly cut, measuring not more than 2.0cm. Pineapples are classified based on their maturity. Immature pineapples have white, opaque flesh with no fragrance. Ripe pineapples have yellow-colored flesh with a sweet, fruity fragrance. Overripe pineapples have 40% translucency in the transverse section, with a yellow or orange color on the lower 1/2 of the fruit surface. The total soluble solid content in the fruit flesh should be at least 12% Brix. The natural coloring of the color and flesh commences from the bottom to top. The crown size and condition of the pineapple are also important factors. A good crown size is when the crown represents 1/4 of the total fruit length. The crown should be green and turgid, with no dead or dry leaves and no visible scars if it has been shortened. Large fruit with an underdeveloped crown is considered unacceptable. The crown represents the rate of fruit freshness. Pineapples are typically packaged in a manner that protects the fruit's freshness. The chosen packaging type must allow for good protection of the fruit. The packaging must be new, dry, food-grade, and rigid to withstand stacking. Good packaging includes fruits of the same maturity, size, and color. Bad packaging includes fruits of different maturity, size, and color. Each pineapple variety has its characteristic shape. A good QUEEN VICTORIA pineapple is cylindrical and symmetric. Pineapples are susceptible to various diseases, including diseases that cause deformity. The QUEEN VICTORIA variety is robust and acclimatized, with little incidence of disease and deformity. Post-harvest procedures for pineapples include proper handling and storage to maintain freshness.