If you’re a fan of bananas (and honestly, who isn’t?), you’ve probably noticed that frustrating phenomenon: your bananas go from bright yellow to a depressing brown in no time. Don’t worry, there are simple tricks to extend their freshness. And believe it or not, neither the kitchen nor the fridge are the best places to keep them.
Why do bananas brown so quickly?
One of the main reasons bananas spoil so fast is ethylene, a natural gas produced by the fruit. This gas acts as a “signal” to accelerate the ripening process. In fact, the more fruits you have near your bananas, the faster they are likely to spoil.
“Keep bananas away from fruits like apples, pears, and avocados if you don’t want them to ripen quickly.These fruits naturally give off ethylene gas, which makes bananas ripen faster,” explained Kristy Baumann, owner of Marathon Nutritionist.
The gas is primarily released from the stems of the bananas. But what can you do about it? Fortunately, there are a few simple tricks to slow down this process and enjoy your bananas for a bit longer.
So, where should you store your bananas?
You’ve probably guessed it by now, the kitchen and the fridge are far from the best options. In reality, there is a very specific zone to store your bananas: at room temperature. Yes, the best temperature is between 15.5 and 20°C (60-68°F). It might seem simple, but believe me, it’s the secret to keeping your bananas firm and sweet longer.
1. Wrap the stems: a small gesture that makes a big difference
If you’ve ever observed a bunch of bananas turning yellow together, you’ve noticed that the stem plays a key role. The secret here? Wrap the stem with a bit of plastic wrap. This small gesture reduces the release of ethylene, helping your bananas stay fresh longer. Simple, right?
2. No heat or direct sunlight
While your bananas like room temperature, it’s important not to expose them to excessive heat or direct sunlight. Avoid leaving them near sunny windows, heaters, or open windows. This can accelerate their ripening and turn their skin black before you’ve had a chance to enjoy them!
3. Paper bags: your best friend
In addition to wrapping the stem, it’s essential to separate your bananas from other fruits. Not only does the ethylene they release speed up the ripening of other fruits, but those same fruits (avocados, apples, tomatoes) also emit ethylene, creating a vicious cycle. Keep them separated to avoid your bananas becoming overripe too soon.
Instead of putting them in a plastic bag, which can trap moisture and promote rotting, opt for a paper bag. This material helps promote airflow while preventing excess moisture, which can keep your bananas in perfect condition a little longer.
What if they’re already too ripe?
Overripe bananas don’t have to end up in the trash.They’re still perfectly usable. Freezing is an excellent way to preserve them. Simply cut them into pieces, place them in an airtight bag, and pop them in the freezer! These frozen pieces make a perfect base for smoothies or even for making delicious banana bread.
A refreshing snack idea?
Frozen banana pieces are also a great healthy snack for hot days. Take them out of the freezer, and you’ll have a sweet, cold, and entirely natural treat to enjoy anytime. You’ll benefit from all the nutritional benefits these fruits have to offer.
Bananas are packed with potassium, an essential mineral for maintaining healthy blood pressure and supporting heart health. They’re also an excellent source of vitamin B6 and vitamin C, which contribute to a strong immune system and healthy metabolism.
