Red mesh bags have a specific purpose
As you shop in supermarkets throughout the Commonwealth have you ever wondered why oranges, apricots, tangerines, and grapefruits are sold in red mesh bags? Tasting Table says this is a deliberate method of making the fruit look more appealing.
As I have shopped in grocery stores across Virginia I assumed the mesh was strong and held the fruit secure. The color of the bag never came to mind. There were times when I removed the oranges there were a few that did not look edible but I could not tell through the mesh.
Taste of Home calls placing oranges and other fruit in red mesh bags a sneaky tactic because the red against the orange peels makes them look more orange and increases the likelihood that consumers will make a purchase.