When faced with an array of fruit in the supermarket, it can be difficult to tell which items are actually ready to be eaten and which should be left. If you aren`t sure of how to tell when fruit is ripe, you might be tempted to just skip right over this part and head for the canned goods section!

This article will give you an idea of what to look for when choosing fruit, as well as some tips for specifics.

As you choose your fruit, ripe or not, you will want to avoid any pieces that have cuts, dents or bruises that affect the quality of the fruit. Take a moment to inspect the fruit before you put it into your basket. Especially look around the stems for possible mold.

Depending on the fruit, there are different ways to tell if it is ripe. For softer fruits with a skin, like peaches, kiwi and dragon fruit, youll want to give the fruit a little squeeze. It shouldnt be rock hard, but you don`t want it to squish easily either. The consistency of a blown up balloon is perfect.

Color can also be a good indication when it comes to some fruits. Green bananas, for example, are not ready to be eaten. You`ll want to wait until they mature to a rich yellow, which can be done right on your kitchen counter. Oranges, as well, need to be orange, rather than green when you purchase them.

Some fruits, such as pineapple, can be very difficult to judge. With a pineapple, you simply need to try pulling on the spiky leaves in the middle of the bunch. If they slip right out, the pineapple is ready to eat.

For melons, such as watermelons, give the fruit a rap with your knuckles. It should sound hollow. However, for softer melons like cantaloupe, youll want to squeeze gently. It should be firm, but not rock hard. A sniff at the stem end will give you a good idea as to whether or not it is ready, as well. A "green" aroma means its not ready, while a musty smell will let you know that it is probably past prime.

Choosing fruit that is ripe will help you prepare better meals and youll also be more confident in your ability to select the correct fruit. This means youll tend to be more willing to choose new items and try them out, something that can be a valuable thing when it comes to adding more variety to your family`s diet.