ABSTRACT A method for predicting total bruising and bruise dis-tributions in apple packs under impact loads is given. The method takes into account the variables to be expected in distribution systems such as bruise resis-tance, numbers of layers, package rebound and impact conditions. It is based on the correlation between bruis-ing and absorbed energy and calculates the absorbed energy at each interface in a multilayered arrangement. It is postulated that the behavior of apples in commercial multilayered packages is similar to that of apples in single columns. Results calculated for Jonathan and Granny Smith ap-ples in columns up to 10 deep for a variety of package and impact conditions are in good agreement with ex-perimental values. The method can be used to evaluate packaging and handling systems and should have wide application to other products transported in multilayered packs.