<![CDATA[Poisson’s ratio is a key parameter describing lateral deformation in materials under load, yet its role in fruit biomechanics remains insufficiently explored and inconsistently applied. This review synthesizes current evidence on how Poisson’s ratio has been measured, interpreted, and used in fruits and horticultural materials, with particular attention to its relevance in postharvest engineering. A structured literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed studies from major scientific databases, focusing on both direct measurement approaches and modelling-based applications. The analysis reveals substantial variability in reported values across commodities, tissue types, and testing conditions, ranging from near-zero values in structurally rigid tissues to values approaching incompressibility in soft, high-moisture systems. These variations are closely linked to tissue structure, maturity, and deformation conditions, but are also strongly influenced by methodological differences. Despite recent advances in optical strain tracking and experimental techniques, many studies continue to rely on assumed values, particularly in finite element modelling and non-destructive assessments. This reliance limits the reliability of mechanical predictions. This study therefore aims to critically review how Poisson’s ratio has been characterized in fruits, to evaluate methodological limitations, and to identify directions for improving its use in postharvest engineering applications.]]>
