Fruits are usually more vulnerable to surface damage and bruising, thanks to hail storms, rain, sun exposure, or humidity. The exterior damage would render these fruits unsellable in most supermarkets, regardless if texture and flavor are unaffected. While on display, shoppers use their tactile and olfactory senses when selecting and deciding on which fruit or vegetable to buy; poking, smelling, possibly mishandling the produce before buying, if at all.
Perhaps the disadvantage of imperfect fruit would be the expectations on how it’s to be consumed: raw, fresh, uncooked (unless it’s for baking or dessert). As opposed to the imperfect vegetable that would be peeled, chopped, grated, tossed, or cooked until it no longer resembles its original, unusual state.
There’s myriad factors as to why produce is not as flawless and perfect as we expect. But, what is “flawless” and “perfect” in nature, if not a relative perception; a construct used to influence consumer behavior and, ultimately, to steer a market economy. Locally and abroad, government policies impose regulatory standards for agricultural produce and food; though necessary for health and hygiene, some still include aesthetics.