Moisture loss from produce can cause which problems?

• A. Shrivel or wrinkle and loss of quality
• B. Increased crispness
• C. Improved flavor
• D. No change in texture

Answer: (A)

Moisture content in produce largely determines texture and juiciness. When moisture is lost, water moves out of the plant cells and turgor pressure drops, causing the tissue to weaken and collapse slightly. The result is a shriveled, wrinkled surface and a drier, less juicy product, that's a clear sign of diminished quality. Crispness tends to decrease rather than increase as the tissue loses water, and while sugars can become more concentrated, flavor quality often declines rather than improves. So moisture loss produces shriveling, wrinkling, and a drop in overall quality.