An overview of near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy for use in measuring quality attributes of horticultural produce is given. Nondestructive quality inspection and sorting technique based on NIR technique is widely used in post-harvest processing and quality control. Different spectrophotometer designs and measurement principles are compared, and novel techniques for the estimation of light absorption and scattering properties of fruit tissue are reviewed. Chemometrics is an essential part of NIR spectroscopy, and some available preprocessing and regression techniques, including nonlinear ones, are discussed. The effects of orchard state on spectrum, and correction method, such as temperature compensation, are addressed. Most applications of NIR spectroscopy have focused on the nondestructive measurement of soluble solids content of fruit where typically a root mean square error of prediction of Brix can be achieved, and other applications involving texture, acidity or disorders of fruit have also been reported. Finally, the application prospects of this technology were analyzed.