If you are examining avocados to purchase, you should avoid tampering with the fruit in this way. Removing the stem can compromise the quality of the fruit for other prospective purchasers.
Hold the avocado in your hand and apply gentle pressure. A ripe avocado will yield slightly with light force. If slight pressure leaves an indent in the avocado, it is a sign it has gone bad. [2] X Research source Check the outer skin of the avocado. If there are wrinkles, marks, severe dents, visible mould, or a rancid odour, the avocado is not safe to eat and should be discarded. [3] X Research source Check the color. Different varieties of avocado have different skin colours. The most common variety of avocado, the Hass, will change colour to very dark green or purple colour when ripe. [4] X Research source If a Hass avocado has reached a deep black colour, it may be past its prime.
When avocado flesh has oxidised, it does not mean that the fruit is inedible. Take a spoon or other utensil and gently scrape away the brown surface area. The underlying avocado flesh should be light green.
