To evaluate the firmness of fruits and vegetables, the amount of deformation of a certain compressive force can be obtained within the elastic range, and the firmness can then be evaluated in a nondestructive manner. When the basic testing device (HIT-Counter I) was designed on an experimental basis and used in kiwifruits to evaluate fruit firmness, a high correlation with the conventional destructive fruit tester was observed and firmness evaluation without destruction could be achieved. Furthermore, the possibility of using this device for evaluation of ripeness, prime eating condition, quality control in shipping, quality evaluation during storage was confirmed. Therefore, a device for practical use (HIT-Counter II), which does not require any technical skill and easy to handle and operate was developed. Results of tests in several laboratories, showed that the firmness of fruits could be evaluated in a nondestructive manner. The device was produced on a commercial basis, and laboratories are beginning to use it.