Bananas are one of the most wasted foods in the UK, with over a million thrown away daily, largely due to improper storage in fruit bowls. Experts now advise keeping bananas separate from other fruit to extend their shelf life.
Many fruits emit ethylene gas, which accelerates ripening. Bananas are particularly sensitive to this gas, even though they produce it themselves. When stored alongside other fruit, they can quickly become overripe and mushy.
Linda Loosli from Food Storage Moms recommends wrapping banana stems in cling film or tin foil to trap ethylene gas and slow ripening. This simple trick can keep bananas fresh for up to two weeks.
To maximise freshness, bananas should be kept in a separate bowl away from apples, avocados, mangoes, and peaches. Keeping the bunch joined at the stem also helps reduce ethylene production.
Once bananas are ripe, they can be stored in the refrigerator to further prolong their life. Avoid using baking paper for wrapping, as it is too porous and allows gas to escape.
