How might overripe produce affect surrounding items?

Overripe produce can significantly downgrade the quality of surrounding items due to the process of ethylene gas emission. Many fruits and vegetables, when they begin to overripe, release ethylene, a natural plant hormone that can speed up the ripening process of nearby produce. This can cause other items to ripen too quickly, leading to spoilage and waste. The moisture around overripe produce can also encourage the growth of mold and bacteria, further degrading the quality of adjacent items. Thus, the presence of overripe produce can compromise the freshness and overall appeal of those nearby, making it essential to monitor and manage ripeness levels effectively.