Fruit & vegetables

How long do bananas last?

Bananas ripen on the counter over 2–7 days depending on how green they start. Refrigeration blackens the skin but keeps the flesh usable for a few extra days, and peeled bananas freeze for 2–3 months.

Fridge

Ripe fruit: 5–7 extra days (skin darkens)

Freezer

2–3 months, peeled and chunked

Counter / pantry

2–7 days depending on ripeness

Store it right

Separate the bunch and wrap the stems to slow ripening.
Keep away from other fruit — bananas release a lot of ethylene.
Freeze peeled chunks the moment they turn heavily speckled.

Signs it has gone off

Leaking or fermented, alcoholic smell
Mould at the stem
Grey, mushy flesh

Rescue ideas

Overripe bananas make the best banana bread and pancakes.
Blend frozen chunks into instant 'nice cream'.
Slice into oatmeal or freeze for smoothies.

Source: USDA FoodKeeper

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