Which of the following defects would disqualify a cantaloupe from premium grade?

Mold on the surface of a cantaloupe is a significant issue that directly affects its quality and safety for consumption. Premium grade cantaloupes are expected to be free from any signs of decay, disease, or fungal growth; mold indicates that the fruit may be spoiled or compromised. This defect compromises not just the aesthetic appeal of the cantaloupe but also poses health risks if consumed. As such, cantaloupes exhibiting any mold would be disqualified from being classified as premium grade, as they do not meet the stringent quality standards set for that category.

In contrast, minor surface scars may be present without significantly affecting the usability or flavor of the fruit, thus they do not disqualify the cantaloupe from premium grade. Normal color variation is considered acceptable as it reflects natural differences in ripening, and thin netting is also a usual variation that does not impact the overall quality.