Which of the following is not a listed defect in artichokes?

The choice of "over maturity" as the correct answer relates to the recognized quality standards for artichokes. In agricultural regulations and commodity quality assessments, defects are generally identified based on their impact on the overall market value and consumer acceptance of the product.

Choking refers to the inedibility or unmarketability of the artichoke due to some form of obstruction or defect that prevents consumption. Blackening indicates the presence of spoilage or decay, which is another clear quality defect. Softness suggests a loss of firmness that often accompanies older or improperly stored artichokes, making them less desirable for consumers.

On the other hand, "over maturity" typically describes a state of ripeness where the artichokes may be larger but not necessarily defective in a way that impacts market value directly. Over-mature artichokes can still be harvested and sold, albeit they might not meet the ideal quality or size standards consumers expect. Thus, defining over maturity as a defect is not accurate within the context of the standard defects listed for this commodity. This indicates that while over-mature artichokes are less desirable, they do not qualify as an outright defect compared to the other options.