Seeing brown bananas on the countertop can make us question whether they’re still edible or ready to be thrown away. Bananas are loved for their taste, nutritional value, and convenience, but their changing appearance as they ripen can be confusing. While brown skin may seem unappetising, these bananas often contain a surprising amount of sweetness and nutrition. To clarify this, we spoke to Eshanka Wahi, a Dubai and Delhi-based Culinary Nutritionist and Holistic Wellness Coach and Founder, Eat Clean With Eshanka, who helped us understand when brown bananas are a delicious treat and when they should be discarded.
How Do Bananas Ripe?
Bananas undergo distinct stages of ripening, each characterised by changes in taste, texture, and sweetness. Wahi breaks it down for you:
Green Bananas: Firm and mildly sweet, green bananas are high in starch.
Yellow Bananas: These are perfect for eating as they strike a balance between sweetness and firmness.
Speckled Bananas: With spots indicating peak sweetness, these bananas are higher in sugar.
Fully Brown Bananas: Brown bananas are ideal for baking and blending into smoothies as they are soft and sweet.
According to a 2019 study, as bananas ripen, they emit ethylene gas, which breaks down the yellow pigment in their skin, causing it to fade and turn brown.
Also Read: Can Eating Bananas Before Bed Improve Your Sleep? Or Disrupt It?
Are Brown Bananas Safe to Eat?
Brown bananas are safe to eat and even offer additional benefits. Here are some of them as listed by the expert:
Digestive Benefits: Brown bananas are easier to digest due to their high sugar content, making them suitable for people with sensitive stomachs.
Enhance Sweetness: The natural sweetness of brown bananas, derived from starch converting entirely to sugar, makes them a great choice for desserts and baked goods like banana bread.
Natural Energy Source: Brown bananas give quick and natural energy because of their high sugar content, which makes them perfect as pre-workout snacks.
According to a 2021 study, as bananas ripen, their fibre content begins to break down, and complex starches are converted into simple sugars. This raises the sugar level in brown bananas, which might concern individuals managing diabetes.
Uses of Brown Bananas
Brown bananas are versatile and can be used in several ways:
Shakes and Smoothies: Add blended brown bananas into smoothies for a natural flavour and heavy creamy texture. Not only that, but also you can make nutritious drinks by adding ingredients like almonds, milk, etc.
Baking: Their soft texture and sweetness make brown bananas perfect for recipes like banana bread, muffins, and pancakes. Brown bananas are good for cooking, as the heat can eliminate potential bacteria.
Face Masks: To make a moisturising mask, mash a banana and mix it with yoghurt or honey. This simple DIY mask can hydrate and nourish the skin.
When to Discard Brown Banana
Although brown bananas are generally safe, certain signs indicate they’ve gone bad and should not be consumed. Here are some signs listed by Wahi:
Leaking Liquid: If a banana is oozing liquid, it’s likely rotting and unsafe to eat.
Black and Slimy Texture: Fully black bananas that feel slimy are unsuitable for consumption.
Foul Odour: A fermented or foul smell signals that the banana has spoiled.
Bottomline
Brown bananas are not only safe to eat but also versatile and nutritious. Their sweetness and digestibility make them ideal for baking, smoothies, and skincare. However, it’s essential to watch for signs of spoilage, such as a slimy texture, leaking liquid, or a foul odour, to ensure you’re consuming them safely. So, the next time you spot a bunch of brown bananas, don’t toss them immediately.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]