Expert: Carol Schlitt - 6/26/2006

Question
how do I store banksranas in the kitchen? Can bananas be frozen?

Answer
Hi Duff,

If you want to slow down the ripening process, refrigerate them. If yoy want to speed up the ripening process, place them in a warm location. If you want to ripen a banana quickly, put it in a brown paper bag with an apple or tomato overnight (out of direct sunlight). The two will work together to speed the ripening of each other.

Bananas can be stored in the refrigerator until reaching the desired ripeness. Although the skin may turn dark, the fruit inside will be fresh and ripe.

You can freeze peeled bananas. Simply place the peeled banana in a freezer bag. A touch of fresh lemon juice may help to reduce browning. I like to freeze mashed bananas in 1 cup measurement - just the amount for my favorite banana bread.  I defrost the bananas in the refrigerator overnight and then make the bread the next day.

Hope this has helped. Let me know if you have further questions.

Carol C. Schlitt
Extension Educator, Nutrition and Wellness
University of Illinois Extension