What visual indicator should consumers look for when buying fresh cherries to ensure the best quality and shelf life?
Answer
Fruit that still has its stems attached
Selecting high-quality fresh cherries involves careful observation of their physical characteristics at the point of purchase. A key indicator of freshness, good handling, and optimal shelf life potential is the presence of intact stems still attached to the fruit. Cherries with their stems attached tend to retain moisture and firmness for a longer duration after picking. Conversely, fruit that is overly soft, exhibits bruising, or has already lost its stems is typically older, more susceptible to spoilage, and will degrade in texture and flavor much more rapidly when stored at home.

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