Oranges, like many other fruits, have a built-in ripening process that starts from the moment they're plucked from the tree. But, here's the thing, some oranges are more cooperative than others when it comes to ripening after they're picked. For instance, Valencia oranges are notorious for being a bit stubborn and refusing to ripen once they're off the tree.
On the other hand, navel oranges are like the overachievers of the citrus world, continuing to ripen and become sweeter even after they're picked. It's like they're trying to make up for something, you know? But seriously, the reason some oranges ripen after picking and others don't has to do with the production of ethylene gas, a natural ripening agent that helps break down the cell walls and make the fruit softer and sweeter.
Now, here's where things get really interesting. Did you know that oranges can actually absorb ethylene gas from other fruits? It's like they're borrowing ripeness from their neighboring fruits! So, if you place your oranges next to some apples or bananas, which are both high ethylene producers, they might just magically ripen up for you.
do oranges ripen after picked? - Test Food Kitchen
