Wrapping the stems of bananas in cling film can help keep the fruit fresh and yellow for longer, according to food experts. The simple storage hack works by trapping ethylene gas, a natural plant hormone that bananas release and which causes fruit to ripen.
Bananas typically ripen in around three to five days when left at room temperature, though this can be quicker depending on how ripe they are at purchase. Slightly green bananas take longer to ripen, while yellow ones are pretty much ready to eat. As a result, buying a whole bunch of yellow bananas often means one or two turn brown and mushy before they are eaten.
How the cling film hack works
Bananas release ethylene gas, which triggers changes like softening, colour development and the release of aromas. The gas causes starches to convert into sugars and breaks down cell walls, turning green bananas yellow and sweeter, while yellow bananas start to turn brown.
Because ethylene gas is primarily released from banana stems, wrapping the stems in cling film traps the gas and slows down ripening. This prevents the fruit from turning brown too quickly, keeping bananas fresher for longer and extending their shelf life so they do not go to waste.
Expert advice on wrapping banana stems
In its online advice on keeping bananas fresh, Allrecipes said: “No matter what, the best thing to do to keep bananas fresh longer is to wrap the stems in plastic.
“The stems produce the ethylene gas that ripens the fruit (and anything around it). The plastic will act as a barrier to contain the gas and extend the longevity of the fruit.
“You can use a bag, wrapped around and secured with something like a rubber band, but it's best to try a little plastic wrap.”
Alternatives and storage tips
If cling film is not available, beeswax wraps or tin foil can be used instead, as these should work just as well. It is also worth storing bananas away from other fruit once the stems are wrapped, as the ethylene gas can cause nearby fruits to ripen more quickly and spoil faster.
Many fruits respond to the ethylene gas released by bananas, including apples, pears, and passion fruit, but citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are unaffected. To avoid spoiling other fruits, experts recommend hanging bananas on a banana hook on a kitchen worktop, as this keeps them separate and prevents bruising.
