Bananas, a popular fruit found in many households, are often subject to improper storage, leading to a quick loss of freshness. What many may not realise is that bananas emit ethylene gas, a natural hormone that speeds up ripening and enhances flavour, similar to apples and other fruits. This can be problematic when different fruits are kept together, as the increased ethylene levels hasten the ripening of all fruits in close proximity – a handy tip for faster ripening of fruits like avocados. Due to their high ethylene production, bananas have a short shelf life, and leaving them in a fruit bowl only accelerates their decay.
Contrary to common practice, Richard Thomas from fridge.com advises storing ripe bananas in the refrigerator to slow down ethylene release and extend their freshness. Richard explains that refrigerating bananas can be a practical way to prolong their shelf life, particularly once they have ripened to the desired level. By utilising this smart storage technique, you can keep your bananas fresh for a longer period, preventing them from becoming overripe, brown, mushy, or mouldy, as reported by the Express. It is important to wait until bananas are fully yellow before refrigerating them, as chilling them prematurely can hinder ripening, leaving green bananas lacking in flavour.
Although refrigeration may cause the skins of bananas to darken due to cold damage – tropical fruits like bananas prefer warmer conditions – the inside remains fresh and yellow, extending their edibility. For optimal results in the fridge, it is recommended to place bananas centrally rather than in the more humid lower crisper drawers, which can shorten their lifespan. While a fruit bowl may only preserve bananas for a few days, refrigeration could extend their freshness by up to two weeks, helping to cut down on grocery costs.
Richard further adds that refrigerated bananas can last significantly longer than those stored at room temperature, typically lasting anywhere from seven to 14 days. Although the peels may darken, the bananas inside will stay firm and fresh for an extended period. By following these tips, you can ensure your bananas maintain their quality and taste for a prolonged duration, saving you from wastage and allowing you to enjoy fresh bananas whenever you desire.