British households could significantly cut down on food waste and save money by adopting a few simple banana storage techniques, according to fresh expert advice. Bananas, a staple fruit in UK shopping baskets, are notoriously one of the most wasted items, often turning brown and soft mere days after purchase.
The science behind speedy spoilage
The primary reason bananas spoil so quickly is their continued and rapid ripening process after being harvested. An expert from Wheeldon Brothers explained that this is driven by the emission of ethylene gas, a natural plant hormone. Understanding this is the first step to extending their shelf life dramatically.
Three proven methods to preserve your bananas
Specialists have outlined three straightforward yet highly effective strategies to keep bananas fresh for longer, potentially up to an impressive 15 days.
Wrap the stems
The stems are the main site for ethylene gas release. By wrapping them, you can substantially slow down the ripening process. The experts advise: "Wrapping the stems in cling film, foil, or even reusable beeswax wraps reduces the emission of ethylene gas and delays the ripening process." This is a small, quick action that yields significant results. It is also crucial to keep bananas separate from other fruits and vegetables, as proximity can accelerate ripening in your entire fruit bowl.
Hang them up
While convenient, the common fruit bowl is actually one of the worst places to store bananas. Allowing them to rest on hard surfaces or pressing against each other leads to bruising, which triggers spoilage. The specialists recommend hanging them instead: "Hanging bananas keeps them from bruising and also reduces contact with ethylene, which is heavier than air." This method helps maintain both the firmness and visual appeal of the fruit. If you don't own a dedicated banana hanger, a simple hook under a kitchen cupboard or a hanging fruit basket works perfectly.
Don't fear the fridge
Many people avoid putting bananas in the refrigerator because it causes the peel to turn dark brown or black. However, this is purely a cosmetic issue. The experts clarified this common misconception, stating: "It's only the peel that discolours. The fruit inside remains fresh and edible. In fact, refrigeration can help bananas last up to 15 days." To prevent the fruit from becoming soggy, they suggest storing them in a paper bag or a breathable container while in the fridge.
A significant impact on waste and wallets
With bananas consistently ranking alongside berries as one of the most binned fruits in Britain, these simple storage solutions offer a practical way to combat food waste. Implementing these tips not only prevents perfectly good food from ending up in the bin but also helps households save money on their weekly grocery shop, making a small but meaningful difference to both the budget and the environment.
