The presence of off-flavors resulting
from the presence of certain aldehydes (e.g., acetaldehyde) may negatively impact quality
perception, whereas other aldehydes such as hexanal tend to enhance the green flavor and
consumer preference of vegetables. The evolution of sulfur volatiles in crucifer vegetables
(e.g., broccoli and cabbage) and Allium vegetables (onion, garlic) is characteristic to
their quality. In a similar way, the evolution of essential oils in Lamiaceae members (mint,
oregano, rosemary, etc.) also attracts consumers. Fruits and vegetables contain a large percentage
of water, which can often exceed 95% by fresh weight. Texture and the degree of
softness are determined by the amount of water contained in the produce and the ability to
retain that water during postharvest storage. The degradation of cell wall components and
the cell membrane negatively affects the rigidity of the tissue in fruits providing the softness
that consumers prefer (degradation of stored starch in banana), though excessive degradation
of these components reduces the shelf life of the fruits drastically. Most vegetables