Bananas with Cracked Skin: What Causes It and How to Prevent It
Bananas are one of the most popular fruits in the world, loved for their sweetness and versatility. However, when you go to the grocery store and see bananas with cracked skin, it can be a bit alarming. Not only does it look unappealing, but it can also affect the taste and texture of the fruit. In this article, we will explore what causes bananas to have cracked skin and how you can prevent it from happening.
What Causes Bananas to Have Cracked Skin?
There are several reasons why bananas may develop cracks on their skin. One of the most common causes is temperature fluctuations during transportation or storage. Bananas are sensitive to temperatures that are too cold or too warm, which can cause the skin to crack. Additionally, if bananas are stored in a humid environment, moisture can build up on the skin and cause it to crack as well.
Another cause of cracked skin on bananas is exposure to ethylene gas. This is a natural gas that is produced by fruits as they ripen, and it can cause bananas to ripen too quickly and develop cracks on the skin. Ethylene gas can come from other fruits that are stored nearby, so it's important to keep bananas separate from other fruits.
How to Prevent Bananas from Getting Cracks on Their Skin
Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to prevent bananas from developing cracks on their skin. First and foremost, make sure to store bananas at the proper temperature. Bananas should be stored at room temperature, ideally between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid storing them in areas that are too cold or too warm, such as in the refrigerator or in direct sunlight.
In addition to proper storage, it's important to handle bananas with care. Rough handling can cause the skin to crack, so be gentle when transporting or storing them. If you notice that a banana has a small crack on the skin, try to eat it as soon as possible before it spreads to other parts of the fruit.
Another way to prevent bananas from getting cracks on their skin is to keep them away from ethylene-producing fruits. This includes apples, avocados, tomatoes, and melons. If you need to store bananas near other fruits, consider using an ethylene-absorbing produce bag to help reduce the amount of ethylene gas in the air.
The Bottom Line
Cracked skin on bananas may not look appealing, but it doesn't necessarily mean that the fruit is bad. In fact, bananas with cracked skin can still be perfectly good to eat as long as you consume them before the cracks spread. By taking the proper precautions when storing and handling bananas, you can help prevent them from developing cracks on their skin and enjoy delicious, healthy bananas whenever you want.
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