Bananas can stay fresh and firm for up to two weeks longer than usual when their stems are wrapped tightly in clingfilm or tin foil, according to advice from The Meal Kit Review.
The tip comes as it is estimated that UK households discard £17billion worth of food annually and waste one million whole bananas daily, so proper storage could help cut grocery costs.
Why fruit bowls cause bananas to spoil
Amanda Kay Oaks from The Meal Kit Review identified that most people mistakenly keep bananas in fruit bowls, which causes them to deteriorate prematurely.
Bananas generate substantial quantities of ethylene, a plant hormone they emit into the atmosphere to facilitate ripening and develop the softness and sweetness required for consumption. This not only accelerates banana ripening considerably, but can also prompt any neighbouring fruit to deteriorate prematurely.
How to store bananas properly
To reduce food waste, it is advisable to remove bananas from the fruit bowl and place them on a kitchen counter or table instead. Keep them in a small bowl away from heat sources such as windows, cookers, or air fryers, as warmth increases ethylene gas production and can speed up the ripening process.
Where possible, keep all the bananas connected as a bunch, as this helps regulate ethylene gas levels and prevents them from ripening too rapidly. A banana hanger can also save kitchen space and improve air circulation around the fruit.
Oaks said: "Bananas can be stored for one to two weeks in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and other ripening fruits. Bananas with some brown spots can still be used and will typically be sweeter due to their higher sugar content."
Wrapping stems extends shelf life
One of the most effective ways to extend the shelf life of bananas is to wrap their stems, as this significantly reduces the amount of ethylene gas released into the air and slows the ripening process considerably.
Simply wrap the banana stem tightly in either clingfilm or tin foil, as both materials prevent ethylene from escaping. Bananas should then remain fresh and firm for up to two weeks longer than they ordinarily would.
