We look at them askance, carefully avoid putting them in the salad bowl, and often end up throwing them away. These very dark-skinned bananas get a bad rap in our kitchens. Yet, if you knew everything they can offer you, you’d see them in a completely different light… Curious? Wait until you discover their best-kept secrets.
A brown banana, is that serious, doctor?
Absolutely not! The famous brown spots on banana skin aren’t a sign of decline, but simply an indication that the fruit has reached full maturity . This is when it’s sweetest, most tender, and sometimes… most useful! According to nutritionist Ana Núñez, these spots indicate a natural progression: from green to yellow, then speckled brown —a true gradient of benefits.
And if you’re used to putting your bananas in the refrigerator to keep them fresher for longer, be careful! The cold can accelerate the appearance of spots even when the banana isn’t fully ripe. This can cause confusion.
Why Ripe Bananas Are a Nutritional Nugget
Often overlooked due to their softer texture, overripe bananas are a true nutritional treasure. As they ripen, their starch transforms into simple sugars like fructose, which are more easily digestible. The result? A brown banana is a natural source of instant energy , perfect for when you’re feeling tired or after a workout.
Nutritionist Nazaret Pereira points out that a medium banana provides around 90 kcal , while being rich in fiber, potassium and vitamins B6 and C. This supports our energy, our immune system and even our digestion.
