How To Use Air Cooler To Ripen And Store Bananas

How to Use Air Cooler to Ripen and Store Bananas

Ripening Bananas

Temperature and Humidity Settings

The ideal temperature for ripening bananas is around 18 - 22°C (64 - 72°F). Set the air cooler to maintain this temperature range. Bananas ripen more quickly in a warmer environment, but if it's too hot (above 27°C or 80°F), the bananas may over - ripen and spoil too quickly.

The air cooler can also help maintain a relative humidity of around 85 - 90%. High humidity slows down the dehydration of the banana skin and helps in the ripening process. Some air coolers have a built - in humidifier function or you can place a tray of water near the air cooler to increase humidity.

Air Circulation

Ensure that the air cooler provides gentle and consistent air circulation. The movement of air helps in the distribution of ethylene gas, which is a natural ripening agent produced by bananas. Place the bananas in a well - ventilated area within the range of the air - cooled air. For example, you can put them on a wire rack or in a perforated basket to allow air to flow around them.

Ethylene Enhancement (Optional)

If you want to speed up the ripening process, you can introduce an external source of ethylene. You can place a ripe apple or tomato near the bananas. These fruits also produce ethylene gas and can accelerate the ripening of bananas. The air circulation from the air cooler will help spread the ethylene gas more evenly around the bananas.

Storing Ripe Bananas

Temperature and Humidity Adjustment

Once the bananas are ripe, you can adjust the air cooler settings to a slightly lower temperature, around 12 - 16°C (54 - 61°F). This can slow down the further ripening process and help in keeping the bananas fresh for a longer time.

The relative humidity can be maintained at around 70 - 80%. At this humidity level, the bananas are less likely to dry out or develop mold.

Separation and Packaging

If you have a bunch of ripe bananas, it's a good idea to separate them from the bunch. This is because when bananas are in a bunch, the ethylene gas produced by one banana can accelerate the ripening of the others. You can wrap the stem end of each separated banana with plastic wrap. This helps to reduce the release of ethylene gas and slows down the ripening process.

Another option is to place the separated bananas in a perforated plastic bag. The holes in the bag allow for some air circulation while still containing the ethylene gas to a certain extent. Then store these bags in the area cooled by the air cooler.

Avoidance of Damage

Make sure that the bananas are not bruised or damaged during storage. Damaged bananas release more ethylene gas and are more prone to spoilage. The air circulation from the air cooler should be gentle enough not to cause any physical damage to the bananas.