Pineapples should be plump, large, heavy for their size and firm. Crown leaves should be fresh and deep green, not brown, yellow, or dull. Eyes may be flat and almost hollowed. Fruit with brighter yellow/gold shell color has higher sugar content and will taste sweeter.

Avoid pineapples that are bruised, molded or have an unpleasant odor or dark, watery eyes.

Odor sensitive: do not store or transport with avocados or green peppers. Best stored with mangoes, tomatoes and lemons.

Susceptible to chilling injury: damage sometimes is not apparent until the produce is returned to a warmer temperature.

Highly sensitive to moisture loss: if humidity level is too low moisture loss will result in shriveling and wilting.