Simple Trick to Keep Bananas Fresh for Weeks
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- A simple trick involving wrapping banana stems in plastic wrap can significantly slow down their ripening process.
- Bananas release ethylene gas, which accelerates ripening; wrapping the stems limits this gas's spread, keeping the fruit fresh longer.
- Storing bananas at room temperature, away from other ethylene-producing fruits, and using this stem-wrapping method can extend their shelf life.
For anyone who has lamented the rapid spoilage of bananas, a simple yet effective solution has emerged, offering a way to extend their freshness for weeks. This practical advice, shared by experts and tested by culinary publications, focuses on a common household item: plastic wrap. The core of the method lies in understanding the science of fruit ripening, specifically the role of ethylene gas released by bananas.
Omotavanje peteljki kuhinjskom folijom moglo bi pomoฤi da banane sporije sazrijevaju i dulje ostanu svjeลพe.
Dr. Dan Bebber from the University of Exeter explains that ethylene gas breaks down cell walls in fruit, converting starch to sugar and reducing acidity, which leads to softer texture and sweeter taste. By wrapping the stems of bananas โ the part where most of the ethylene is released โ with plastic wrap, the spread of this gas is significantly reduced. This simple act slows down the ripening process, allowing bananas to maintain their desirable texture and appearance for a considerably longer period.
ล to se viลกe etilena oslobaฤa, banane brลพe omekลกavaju, mijenjaju boju i postaju prezrele, zbog ฤega cijeli grozd banana poฤne trunuti u isto vrijeme.
This technique is further enhanced by complementary advice, such as keeping bananas separate from other fruits like apples or avocados, which also emit ethylene. Storing them at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat, is also crucial. While this method doesn't halt ripening entirely, it offers a practical and accessible way for consumers to reduce food waste and enjoy their bananas for longer, making it a valuable tip for any household.
na taj naฤin smanjuje ลกirenje etilena izmeฤu plodova pa banane sazrijevaju sporije i ravnomjernije.
Originally published by Veฤernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.