I’ve also found an even more effective method for extending their shelf life: I recently discovered that bananas release ethylene gas from their stems. So, wrapping their stems in aluminum foil or plastic wrap helps keep them fresh for weeks.
Aluminum foil or plastic wrap creates an airtight seal around the stems, trapping the ethylene gas and preventing it from circulating into the air.
Don’t make the mistake I did by using parchment paper—I’ve learned that it doesn’t work, as it can’t form a proper seal to contain the ethylene gas.
About two weeks ago, I tested this method on a newly bought bunch, and after 10 days, the bananas were still fresh. With just a bit of aluminum foil, they lasted nearly two weeks longer than they would’ve in a fruit basket.
I’ve also realized that it’s better to keep bananas in a bunch rather than separating them. Just the other day, I noticed that a banana I accidentally broke off from the bunch is developing spots, while the others, still attached, are perfectly fine.
Another tip I discovered online is that you can store bananas in the fridge to slow down the ripening process. The cold temperature significantly delays the spoiling, so I tried putting the spotty bananas in the fridge for my lunch. Five days later, they were still yellow and perfectly good to eat.
Proper banana storage is surprisingly simple, and I’m amazed at how much money I’ve wasted by not researching it sooner!
