Keep Bananas Fresh for 2 Weeks with Plastic Wrap

The Problem

You buy bananas Monday and by Thursday they're brown and mushy. Americans throw away 3.5 million tons of bananas yearly.

The Hack

Tightly wrap plastic wrap (or foil) around the stem end of the banana bunch. Re-wrap after removing each banana.

Why It Works

Bananas release ethylene gas from their stems which triggers ripening. Wrapping slows the release rate significantly.

Pro Tips

• Separate bananas and wrap individual stems for even longer life
• Once at preferred ripeness, refrigerate — peel darkens but fruit stays perfect 4-5 more days
• Freeze overripe ones peeled for smoothies and banana bread
• Keep bananas away from other fruit — they speed ripening of everything nearby