Fully ripe bananas will last 5 to 7 days if stored in the refrigerator.
While bananas are often kept at room temperature, refrigeration significantly extends their lifespan once they've ripened. Storing them in the refrigerator will slow down the ripening process.
Here's a breakdown of banana lifespan based on storage conditions:
- At Room Temperature: Bananas typically last 2-7 days depending on their initial ripeness level. Green bananas will take longer to ripen than yellow bananas.
- In the Refrigerator (after ripening): Expect them to last 5-7 days. The peel will turn brown/black, but the fruit inside should remain usable.
- Frozen: Frozen bananas can last for 2-3 months. They are best used in smoothies or baking after thawing.
Tips for Extending Banana Lifespan:
- Separate Bananas: Separate individual bananas from the bunch. This slows down the ripening process as ethylene gas, which accelerates ripening, is released less effectively.
- Wrap the Stems: Wrapping the stems in plastic wrap can help reduce ethylene gas release.
- Refrigerate Ripe Bananas: Once bananas are ripe, refrigerate them to slow down further ripening.
- Freeze Overripe Bananas: If bananas are becoming overripe, peel and freeze them for future use.
Even when the peel has turned completely brown or black while refrigerated, the inside of the banana may still be perfectly fine to eat. Judge the ripeness by the feel and smell of the fruit inside the peel.
