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Why can oranges and grapefruit be left on trees after reaching good quality?
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fruit processing
Limes being prepared for processing into juice, Tecoman, Mexico.
Oranges and grapefruit can be left on the tree for several months after reaching good quality because the tree serves as a natural storage environment. This practice is beneficial for fruit processing and distribution because it effectively cuts costs associated with handling and marketing the fruit.1
By allowing the fruit to remain on the tree, growers can manage the timing of the harvest more flexibly, rather than needing to pick and store the entire crop immediately upon maturity. This method helps maintain the fruit's condition while reducing the immediate need for extensive postharvest storage facilities.1