Yes, bananas do go bad. How long they last depends on storage conditions.
Bananas typically last for approximately two to five days when stored at room temperature on your countertop. Greenish bananas will ripen slower and last longer than yellow ones. Once they are fully ripe, storing bananas in the refrigerator can extend their lifespan for up to a week.
Here's a quick breakdown:
- Countertop (unripe/green): May last several days to a week.
- Countertop (ripe/yellow): Generally last 2-5 days.
- Refrigerator (ripe): Can last up to a week, though the peel will darken.
Essentially, like most fresh produce, bananas have a limited shelf life and will eventually spoil. Look out for signs like excessive browning, soft spots, or a fermented smell. Even overripe bananas can still be used for baking, such as in banana bread.
