Bananas: the ultimate snack, smoothie staple, and breakfast champion. But if you've ever bought a bunch, you know the struggle. One day, they're green; the next, they're perfect, and by the time you blink, they've gone full-on leopard print. So, what's the deal with their rapid ripening? And more importantly, how do you stop it?
Blame it on ethylene gas, a natural plant hormone that bananas produce in abundance. This gas speeds up ripening, which is why bananas seem to go from just right to overripe overnight—especially when stored with other fruits that release ethylene, like apples and avocados. Too much ethylene in one space? Boom. Brown Banana City.
© Getty ImagesThe Trick to Slowing Down Ripening
Kristen, a cook and founder of The Frugal Girl, has a simple yet genius hack: wrap the banana stems in plastic wrap. While some bananas already come like that, she explains, "Separate your bananas at the stems and wrap the top of the stem in plastic wrap." This trick reduces ethylene emissions, slows down the ripening process, and keeps bananas fresh for longer.
For best results:
- Store bananas at room temperature, away from other fruits.
- Wrap the stems in clingfilm or aluminum foil to reduce ethylene exposure.
- Expect up to seven to ten extra days of freshness!
© Getty ImagesShould You Refrigerate Bananas?
Yes—but only at the right time. Once your bananas reach the perfect shade of yellow, transfer them to the fridge. The skin will darken (don't panic!), but the fruit inside will stay fresh and delicious.
© Getty ImagesKristen explains: "When the bananas are the perfect ripeness, put them in the fridge. The skin will turn brown, but the actual banana's ripening will be paused." This can extend their life for up to two weeks.
What About Green Bananas?
Don't even think about putting unripe bananas in the fridge. The cold will mess with their ripening process, leaving you with weirdly firm, flavorless fruit that never quite reaches that sweet spot. Instead, let them ripen at room temperature with their stems wrapped. Once they're yellow, then it's fridge time.
© Getty ImagesSo, next time you bring home a bunch, ditch the fruit bowl, wrap the stems, and enjoy your bananas at their peak for longer!
