Importance Score: 25 / 100 🔵
Bananas are a prevalent source of food waste in UK households, frequently turning brown and developing spots within mere days. However, a straightforward technique can significantly prolong their yellow vibrancy and freshness. Contrary to common practice, bananas should not be stored in a fruit bowl amongst other produce. Instead, keeping them separate is key to optimal preservation.
According to Kendall, a baking expert and founder of A Bit of This, A Dash of That, encasing the stems of bananas substantially extends their freshness. Kendall recounted her annoyance at bananas rapidly softening and bruising, necessitating frequent supermarket visits. This prompted her to experiment with an impressive storage hack she encountered online.
Simple Banana Storage Solution
“The original suggestion involved using plastic wrap to cover the banana crowns,” Kendall stated. “However, we opted for aluminium foil, reasoning that the crucial element was covering the tops, not necessarily the specific material.”
Kendall proceeded to wrap the stems of a banana bunch in aluminium foil and documented their condition daily. After a week, she expressed surprise at the fruit still exhibiting a bright yellow hue.
“I capitalised on their extended freshness and averted waste!” she exclaimed. “I appreciate having bananas readily available for snacking, and this effective storage method allows them to remain fresh for a whole week, minimising grocery store trips.”
The Science Behind the Method
The effectiveness of this storage technique stems from understanding ethylene gas. Bananas, post-harvest, emit this natural compound – a hormone that facilitates fruit ripening and intensifies flavour.
Bananas demonstrate considerable sensitivity to ethylene gas. Excessive exposure to this gas accelerates the ripening process, leading to quicker spoilage.
Fruits to Keep Separate
Varieties such as apples, avocados, pears, and melons are major ethylene gas producers. Storing these fruits together in a bowl is not advisable, as it encourages rapid deterioration across the entire selection.
Bananas emit ethylene gas primarily from their stems. Wrapping the stems efficiently decelerates the ripening process, consequently aiding in preserving their freshness.
Practical Steps for Banana Storage
To implement this banana preservation tip, simply use aluminium foil or cling film to tightly wrap the stems of a bunch of bananas.
Keeping bananas together as a bunch, rather than separating them, further assists in slowing down ethylene gas release.
By wrapping the stems and storing bananas away from other fruits, you can effectively maintain their freshness, potentially extending their shelf life by at least seven days.