Many of us are familiar with the dilemma: bananas bought from the supermarket are often green, but quickly turn yellow and then brown, especially during the summer months. This rapid ripening leads to a significant amount of food waste, with estimates suggesting that up to a million bananas are thrown away daily in the UK. The brown spots that appear on the skin can be off-putting, even though the fruit inside remains perfectly edible.
Fortunately, there are several simple methods that can slow down the ripening process, starting from the moment you buy them.
Shopping Smart:
Leave them in the bag: While it might seem counterintuitive, keeping bananas in their plastic bag, even if it has holes, will actually accelerate ripening. This is because bananas, like many fruits, produce ethylene gas, a natural ripening agent. The plastic bag traps the gas, speeding up the process.
Storing Them Right:
Avoid the fruit bowl: A food hygiene expert at High Speed Training advises against storing bananas in a fruit bowl with other fruits. Instead, they should be kept on a countertop, in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and warm appliances.
Separate the bunch: Ethylene gas is released from the stem of the banana, so separating the bananas from the bunch can help them stay at their peak ripeness for longer.
Wrap the stems: To further slow down the ripening process, wrap the stems of the bananas in cling film. This will reduce the amount of ethylene gas that can travel down the fruit, keeping them fresher for longer.
Try a banana hanger: For a more convenient solution, consider purchasing a banana tree hanger. These hangers allow you to keep the bunch together while still slowing down the ripening process. They are readily available at many supermarkets and homeware stores.
Freezing for Later:
Refrigerate for longevity: Once your bananas reach the desired ripeness, you can store them in the fridge to prolong their shelf life. A properly stored banana can last for up to 16 days in the fridge, even with brown spots on the skin.
Freeze for smoothies and ice cream: Bananas are a versatile fruit that can be frozen for later use. Simply place them in a freezer-safe bag and they will keep for up to six months. Frozen bananas are perfect for making healthy smoothies or banana ice cream.
By following these simple tips, you can reduce banana waste and enjoy these nutritious fruits for longer. Remember, brown spots donât always mean a banana is bad! So donât be afraid to enjoy them even when theyâve reached their peak ripeness.