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Neither in the fridge nor in the fruit bowl: the best tip to store bananas and prevent them from spoiling

Tip, store, bananas

Bunch of bananas in a kitchen.

Many of us have experienced the disappointment of a soft, overripe banana turning brown far too quickly. In the search for the perfect spot to keep our fruit fresh, it can be confusing to know whether the best place is on the kitchen counter, in the refrigerator, or elsewhere. There are many recommendations for this, but a simple technique can make a significant difference in extending the life of your bananas.

Here, we’ll clear up the confusion by focusing on one trick: wrapping the stems. You will also find practical suggestions for storing bananas, insights on when refrigeration can be helpful, and tips on handling peeled or overripe fruit. The goal is to help your bananas retain their vibrant yellow hue and firm texture for a longer period.

Wrapping the stems: the trick to keep your bananas fresh for longer

Bananas naturally release ethylene, a gaseous hormone that initiates the ripening process. The stems serve as the primary exit point for this gas from the fruit. When ethylene disperses freely, it signals the entire bunch to soften and sweeten rapidly, much like what happens with other ethylene-producing fruits such as apples, avocados, and pears.

Wrapping the stems directly tackles this issue by slowing the emission of ethylene. Covering the stem region can reduce the amount of gas around the fruit, decelerating the ripening process. This simple barrier ensures that your bananas maintain their ideal yellow firmness for several days.

Obtain a small piece of plastic wrap or aluminum foil and wrap it tightly around the stem end where the bananas converge. Ensure that the wrap is secure and covers the entire stem area. If you choose to separate the bananas—a step that can further minimize ethylene exposure—wrap each stem separately.

More tips for storing bananas

There are other effective practices that can enhance banana preservation even more. Here are additional methods that have proven successful:

By emphasizing the stem wrap technique along with these complementary strategies, you can avoid the pitfalls of keeping unripe bananas in the fridge. This approach not only prolongs the freshness and flavor of your bananas but also helps reduce waste and save money.

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