External check:
There are sometimes scale insects on the peel; they should be removed.
Internal check:
Method 1. Cut the fruit into slices, horizontally. Examine each slice for worms, on both sides (Illustration 278). The worms are the same color as the fruit, with a small black dot at the head. They burrow into the fruit via narrow tunnels (Illustrations 16, 17, 275a,275b,275c,276,277). The area around the worms is usually mushy.
Method 2. Peel the fruit and check for a dark spot, hole, or mushy area in the fruit. If a suspicious sign is found, cut into the fruit at that point and examine for worms (Illustration 279).
Note: Guavas from untended trees, e.g. those grown in private gardens, are more likely to be infested.
