BRUISING AND SPLITTING OF APPLE FRUIT UNDER UNIAXIAL COMPRESSION AND THE ROLE OF SKIN IN PREVENTING DAMAGE

Whole apples were compressed uni-axially with the core at right angles (horizontal compression) and parallel (vertical compression) to the direction of force. Under horizontal compression, the apple begins to bruise as soon as force is applied. The energy absorbed is proportional to the volume of bruise produced. Resistance to bruising varies with variety. In this orientation the fruit does not deform elastically, bruises easily, and the skin is not important in preventing bruising. Under vertical compression the apple is a much more elastic structure and can expand laterally. It can withstand greater deformation without damage. Rock Pippin can elastically absorb up to 0.5 J before damage. In this orientation, skin plays an important part in preventing cracking under tension. Any damage to the skin greatly reduces the structural strength of the fruit and renders it much more susceptible to cracking. Apples stacked in boxes seldom experience energies greater than 0.5 J. Storing apples in a vertical orientation can therefore reduce risk of bruising.