Few things turn off a fresh produce consumer more than biting into a piece of fruit before it’s ready to eat. To ensure that the buyer of that banana, avocado, pear or mango becomes a repeat purchaser — even a loyal customer — shippers continue to refine their ripening capabilities and to work with their retail partners on selling fruit when it’s at its peak.

As consumers trend further into the health and wellness realm, they’re focusing more on the freshness of their foods while demanding products that shun many preservatives.

Consumer interest in the specialty diet may continue through 2019.