Many people make the mistake of placing ripe bananas directly into the refrigerator, thinking it will keep them fresh. In reality, this can cause bananas to turn black quickly and become mushy, even though the inside may still be edible. To properly store bananas and extend their freshness for up to a month, there is one simple extra step you should follow.

Before refrigerating ripe bananas, allow them to fully ripen at room temperature in a dry, well-ventilated area. Once they reach the ideal level of ripeness—yellow with minimal brown spots—you can take action to slow down the aging process. Separating the bananas and wrapping the stems with plastic wrap or foil helps reduce the release of ethylene gas, which is responsible for rapid ripening.

After this step, placing bananas in the refrigerator becomes much more effective. While the peel may still darken slightly due to the cold temperature, the fruit inside remains firm, fresh, and flavorful for a much longer time. This method prevents premature spoilage and reduces food waste, especially for households that don’t consume bananas every day.

For even better results, keep bananas away from other fruits such as apples or avocados, which also release ethylene gas. Proper storage not only preserves texture and taste but also helps you save money by extending the shelf life of your fruit.

In short, a small storage adjustment can make a big difference. With this simple extra step, you can enjoy fresh, delicious bananas for weeks instead of watching them spoil too quickly.