When assessing oranges, what feature is a sign of overripeness?

When assessing oranges, a soft texture is an indicator of overripeness. As oranges ripen, they progress from firm to soft due to the breakdown of pectin and other cell wall materials, which can make the fruit more palatable. However, once they become too soft, they may lose their desirable flavor and juiciness, and may even begin to spoil. A soft texture signifies that the fruit has surpassed its optimal ripeness and could indicate that it is overripe.

In contrast, features like firm texture suggest that the orange is still fresh and within its ripening stage. A bright color typically denotes ripeness and quality, while a heavy weight usually indicates juiciness and freshness. Therefore, the presence of a soft texture is the primary characteristic one should look for when determining whether an orange is overripe.