A banana separated from the bunch will likely ripen faster. So, the first hack to slow down the ripening process is to keep the bunch hanging as it would hang on the plant. Attach a hook to the bunch of bananas.
Hanging the bunch of bananas on the hook will prevent the fruits from touching any surface, slowing down the breakdown of the acids.
Choose a shaded spot to hang the bananas, as sunlight or bright environments will speed up the ripening process.
Another way to keep bananas from ripening too fast is to use plastic wrap to minimise exposure to the ethylene in the air. But first, you must separate each fruit from the stem.
Repeat for each banana in the bunch.
Cut pieces of plastic wrap. Each piece must wrap one banana stem.
Wrap the plastic wrap around the individual stem of each banana.
Do this until all the bananas in the bunch have plastic wrap covering their stems.
Storing overripe bananas in the refrigerator will make them last longer than at room temperature. You will notice the skin turning brown even when the banana is in the refrigerator. But the fruit will remain fresh for longer.
If you don't use the overripe bananas in the refrigerator within two or three days, they will turn mushy. Still, they will be sweet and tasty. So, if you don't want to waste them, cut the fruit into pieces, and throw them into the blender along with milk or yoghurt to make a delicious banana smoothie.
Here are a few ways to use overripe bananas instead of throwing them in the trash:
· Overripe bananas are an excellent addition to baked goodies such as banana bread, muffins, pancakes, and fairy cakes. Their sweetness makes them a good sugar substitute for healthier baked goodies. They also taste great in ice cream and puddings.
· Another idea for storing overripe bananas in the refrigerator is to cut them into small pieces and freeze them. You can add them straight into the blender to make smoothies or use them in other recipes.
· If you have a garden or love indoor plants, overripe bananas can be used to make plant food. Puree the bananas with some water to make tea. Pour the tea at the base of the plants and watch as they send out big blooms and new growth.
· Overripe bananas are also great for your skin. Use them to make homemade face and body scrubs. Mash the banana and apply it to the skin or all over the body. Leave it for a few minutes before washing it off the skin. Your skin will feel soft and moist.