We’ve Gone Bananas!

Hi Everyone!

I thought we could have a little discussion about bananas this time! It often comes to mind as a way to get our daily dose of potassium. However, this fruit has much more to offer! Join me as we talk more about bananas!

Did you know that the banana is the first known cultivated fruit? They originated between 5000-8000 BC in Southeastern Asia. Bananas were mentioned in early Arab and Greek writings. Bananas eventually spread throughout the rest of the world after Alexander the Great discovered them in India. They were transported from the Canary Islands to the New World and appeared in the United States in the 19th century.

The yellow bananas often seen in the grocery store belong to the Cavendish subgroup of bananas. They are characterized by being green when not ripe and turning yellow as they ripen. During the ripening process, the starch converts into sugar. As the banana turns brown, it becomes overripe. These sweeter bananas are sometimes called dessert bananas, while the more starchy bananas are called cooking bananas or plantains.

While both dessert and cooking bananas contain a great amount of potassium, they also contain a plethora of other nutrients. Both are full of fiber, which help keep you full for a long period of time. They also contain a good amount of Vitamin B6 and Vitamin C among other nutrients. Dessert bananas are mainly used as a standalone snack, ingredient in a baked good/dessert, or as an ingredient in a one pot dish while cooking bananas are mainly used as a side dish, to make flour, or to make soups/stews.

Do you enjoy both dessert and cooking bananas? Do you have a preference? What are some of your favorite ways of consuming bananas?

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