In the quest to stretch our food budgets and reduce wastage, preserving the freshness of our groceries is paramount. Among the nutrient-packed treasures of the fruit world, bananas reign supreme, gracing our tables worldwide in a variety of ways – from solo snacks to delectable desserts and refreshing beverages.
For anyone who’s bought bananas, the struggle against rapid bruising and overripening is all too real. Navigating the timing of purchasing and ripening can be tricky, leaving us with a narrow window to savor their golden perfection before they succumb to browning.
But worry no more, as Gary Ellis, director at CE Safety, unveils a game-changing storage hack to ensure you enjoy prime bananas for an extended span of up to 10 days. In a conversation with Express.co.uk, Gary lays out a method that can keep your bananas at their best.
Gary reveals that bananas release ethylene gas, the culprit behind their browning. The key to preserving their vibrant hue and ideal texture lies in containing this ethylene gas. And here’s the trick: Keep your bunches far away from other fruits. “Bananas need their space. While banana hangers above fruit bowls might look charming, they’re inadvertently speeding up ripening by exposing bananas to nearby fruits,” warns Gary.
Additionally, separating the bunch into individual bananas is another strategic move to slow down the inevitable browning process. Gary adds, “This simple action keeps bananas fresher longer by trapping ethylene gas at the fruit’s top – where it’s emitted – instead of letting it spread and affect neighboring bananas.”
Gary also demystifies a common misconception about refrigerating bananas. While refrigeration can indeed extend shelf life, it must be approached cautiously. He advises that only optimally ripe bananas should make their way into the fridge. “Put them in too early, and they’ll stay stubbornly green. Wait too long, and you’re greeted with the undesirable brown and mushy result,” Gary clarifies.
Experience banana brilliance like never before with this ingenious storage hack that lets you relish the perfect ripeness for days on end!
