Select the option that is true regarding the following two statements labelled Assertion and Reason. Assertion (A): Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) are mainly responsible for enzymatic browning in some fresh fruits and vegetables when they are cut or bruised. Reason (R): The oxidation of phenolic compounds in the fruits or vegetables to quinones and the formation of melanin gives a dusky colour to foods. Options:

Correct option is A

The Assertion is true. When fruits and vegetables are cut, bruised, or damaged, cellular compartmentalization is disrupted, bringing polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) enzymes in contact with phenolic compounds. These enzymes catalyze oxidation reactions that result in browning of the tissue—commonly seen in apples, bananas, potatoes, etc.
The Reason is also true and correctly explains the assertion. During enzymatic browning:
PPO catalyzes the oxidation of phenolic compounds to quinones.
These quinones further undergo non-enzymatic polymerization to form melanin-like brown pigments, responsible for the dusky or brown coloration.
This process is a natural defense mechanism in plants and contributes to undesirable discoloration in food products if not controlled.
Thus, both the Assertion and the Reason are true, and the Reason correctly explains the Assertion. Hence, the correct answer is Option (a).