Damaged apple and fruit deterioration

A damaged apple can speed up the decay of nearby fruits, especially if molds grow and the fruits are touching each other. However, one impact is not enough to rot an entire basket, according to Stéphanie Ballot, a dietitian-nutritionist.

Role of the apple's skin

The apple's skin acts as a natural barrier that protects its flesh. If the skin is cracked or pierced, microorganisms can more easily enter the fruit and grow inside it. This can lead to mold development, which produces microscopic spores that can spread through the air or by contact.

Spore transmission and mold growth

If these spores reach another fruit and the environmental conditions are favorable, molds can develop on that fruit as well. The risk increases when the fruits are tightly packed or also damaged. However, an apple that has been hit may not necessarily rot—it might just develop a bruise.

Bruises versus mold

A bruise causes the flesh to brown due to natural reactions, without the presence of mold. It is important to distinguish a bruised fruit from one affected by mold or rot. Regularly inspecting your basket and removing any moldy or rotting fruits is key to preventing the spread of decay.

Ethylene gas and ripening

Apples naturally produce ethylene, a gas that speeds up the ripening of many fruits, such as kiwis and avocados. Ethylene makes these fruits softer and more aromatic, but it does not directly cause them to rot. Rot is generally caused by microorganisms like molds.

When to keep or discard a damaged apple

A damaged apple does not necessarily emit more ethylene than an intact one. The amount of gas depends on the fruit's variety and maturity. Whether to throw away a damaged apple depends on the nature and extent of the damage. If the apple's skin is intact and there are no other signs of damage, it can be kept and consumed quickly.

Preventing fruit spoilage

To prevent apples from rotting too quickly, regularly inspect your basket and remove bruised, softened, or moldy fruits. Clean the basket if necessary, and avoid overpacking the fruits to prevent mold from spreading. Store different fruits appropriately—apples in the refrigerator, bananas at room temperature, and berries in the refrigerator.

Summary of key points

A damaged apple does not necessarily cause all the fruits in a basket to rot. A simple impact often leads to a bruise without serious consequences, while a moldy or decaying apple can promote the deterioration of neighboring fruits. The correct approach is to regularly check your apples, remove those that are rotting, and adapt storage methods to reduce food waste.