Delayed harvest (2–6 weeks after CM), substantially increased
development of red blush (Fig. 1) on the fruit surface and consequently
augmented C*, and reduced CIE L* and h◦, in both years and
sites (Figs. 2 and 3). The enhanced red blush on the fruit surface may
be attributed to increased concentrations oftotal anthocyanins and
cyanidin 3-galactoside (Figs. 4 and 5) in the fruit skin. Similarly,
delayed harvesting has been reported to improve development of
red blush on the surface of ‘Pink Lady’ apple fruit under the climatic
conditions of Washington State, USA (Drake et al., 2002).